# Decentralized Validation Network

The **Decentralized Validation Network** is responsible for monitoring trades and ensuring that the **Optimex** Vault settles assets correctly when all trade conditions are met. It consists of **Multiparty Computation (MPC) nodes**, which collectively authorize transactions using a **threshold signature scheme**.

### <mark style="color:orange;">Structure & Security</mark>

* **MPC Nodes**: The Validation Network initially consists of **three MPC nodes**, producing a **2-of-3 threshold (tECDSA) signature** for trade settlement.
* **Epoch-Based Key Refresh**: To enhance security, MPC nodes and their cryptographic keys are refreshed at regular epochs.
* **Security Deposits & Slashing**:
  * Each node must **stake a security deposit**, ensuring economic accountability.
  * Nodes are **slashed** if they deviate from protocol rules, such as failing to sign in time or blocking valid settlements.
  * The combined stake of all nodes must always be greater than the value of assets temporarily controlled by the Vault during trades.
* **Scalability & Risk Mitigation**:
  * Because assets remain under Vault control only during the trade process and are settled immediately, the Validation Network can **facilitate billions in trading volume** with reasonable security deposits (e.g., **$10M–$20M per node**).

The Validation Network's decentralized design ensures **trustless trade execution, high security, and economic alignment among participants** in the **Optimex** ecosystem.

#### <mark style="color:orange;">Current Deployment</mark>

The Validation Network currently comprises three nodes operated by three independent teams:

* [**AltLayer**](https://altlayer.io/) **team**
* [**SubWallet**](https://www.subwallet.app/) **team**
* **Optimex team**

This multi-party setup ensures no single entity controls the committee, providing decentralization from day one while the network scales toward broader validator participation through permissionless staking.


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