> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://mtt-network.gitbook.io/mtt-network-1/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://mtt-network.gitbook.io/mtt-network-1/introduction/c.-validator-nodes/1-.-roles-and-responsibilities-of-validators.md).

# 1). Roles and Responsibilities of Validators

Validator nodes play a crucial role in MTT Network, with specific responsibilities including:

* **Block Generation**: Validator nodes generate new blocks by participating in the consensus algorithm (Tendermint BFT), recording on-chain transactions and ensuring data consistency.
* **Transaction Validation**: Validator nodes are responsible for validating all transactions in the network, ensuring they are valid and comply with network rules.
* **Consensus Maintenance**: Validators participate in the consensus protocol, reaching network consensus through a voting mechanism to decide which transactions will be included in new blocks.
* **Network Security**: Validator nodes provide network security by staking MTT tokens. If a validator behaves improperly or maliciously, their staked tokens may be slashed (i.e., the "punishment" mechanism).