Stratis is pleased to announce that the Masternode Staking Protocol is now live on the Stratis Mainnet. This release introduces a new level of flexibility for existing solo stakers and Masternode operators, who can now earn staking rewards while receiving mSTRAX, a liquid token that can be utilised across the Stratis ecosystem.
Unlocking Masternode Staking
With the protocol now deployed, holders are able to generate validator keys, configure their Linux hosts via the Stratis Launcher, and onboard their validators into the Masternode Staking Protocol. In return, users receive mSTRAX tokens, which represent their staked holdings.
These tokens will soon play a central role in the Masternode ecosystem and other smart contract-based applications on StratisEVM.
A step-by-step guide is available to assist users through the entire setup process, from key creation to validator configuration:
View the Masternode Staking Setup Guide
Masternode dApp - Pending Hardfork Activation
Although the protocol is live and mSTRAX issuance is functional, the Masternode dApp will not accept mSTRAX as collateral until the scheduled hardfork on 11th June 2025.
This provides an opportunity for the community to complete all onboarding steps ahead of time, ensuring validators are ready when the fork activates.
Validator Updates Required Ahead of Fork
To maintain compatibility with the network following the hard fork, all existing validators must update their configuration. Specifically, an update to the Geth binary is required. No changes are needed to Prysm.
https://github.com/stratisproject/go-stratis/releases
Validators using the Stratis Launcher can apply the update by selecting Update All from the Updates menu.
Joining the Masternode Staking Protocol
For existing validators who wish to participate in the Masternode Staking Protocol, it is important to note that existing validator keys cannot be reused.
The protocol requires validator keys to be created with the protocol contract configured as the withdrawal address. This setup is essential for enabling validator exit management and proper integration with the protocol’s infrastructure.
To participate, existing validators must exit their current setup, generate new keys, and then complete onboarding via the Masternode Staking dApp.
Testing on Auroria
Stratis strongly recommends that participants test their validator configuration on the Auroria Testnet prior to deploying on Mainnet.
While the general setup process is similar, there are subtle differences, particularly regarding the execution and withdrawal addresses. These differences are outlined in the Masternode Staking Setup Guide and must be followed to ensure proper testnet compatibility.
To begin testing, users should:
- Select Stratis Auroria when configuring their host in the Stratis Launcher
- Request 1,000,000 tSTRAX via the Stratis Discord Server
- Use the Auroria staking dApp, available at: https://beta.staking.masternode.stratisevm.com
Testing on Auroria provides an opportunity to familiarise with the process and confirm configuration ahead of Mainnet deployment.
Support and Resources
Stratis encourages any users with questions or who need support to join the community on Discord, where both the core team and experienced validators are available to assist.
