Understanding Ethereum 2.0 (Eth2)
Ethereum 2.0 represents a major network upgrade transitioning Ethereum from Proof-of-Work (PoW) to Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus. This evolution introduces sharding to enhance scalability, security, and sustainability.
Eth2 Staking Mechanics
Eth2 rollout occurs in three phases:
- Beacon Chain (current phase)
- The Merge
- Sharding
During the Beacon Chain phase, users can stake ETH to become validators, supporting network consensus while earning stable annual yields (~6.8% as of historical data).
Non-Custodial Staking Services
Comparative staking solutions include:
| Solution Type | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Self-Hosted | Full control; requires technical expertise |
| Custodial | Third-party asset custody; enables sub-32 ETH staking |
| Staking Pools | Custodial with liquidity tokens |
| Non-Custodial | Retain asset ownership with professional node maintenance |
👉 Explore staking service comparisons
imToken's integrated non-custodial solution with InfStones offers:
- Full asset ownership
- 7.05% annual yield
- Zero node maintenance for users
Service Fee Structure
InfStones charges $100 per validator node annually for hardware and 24/7 maintenance.
Pricing Timeline
| Period | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Exploration | May–Jun 2021 | $100/node |
| Early Bird | Jul 2021–Merge | $200/node |
| Post-Merge | TBD | Market rate |
Renewal Policies
Key provisions:
- Pre-Merge: Services auto-extend until Merge completion
- Post-Merge: All nodes require renewal at new rates
- Bonus Periods: Additional service days (rules TBD)
👉 Learn about post-merge staking
FAQs
Q: Can imKey hardware wallet participate in non-custodial staking?
A: Currently, the service requires integration through imToken's platform.
Q: What happens if I don't renew post-merge?
A: Nodes automatically exit the network, with funds redeemable when Eth2 enables withdrawals.
Q: How are yields calculated?
A: Returns compound based on network participation and current staking rewards.
Q: Is there a minimum staking period?
A: Services continue until Eth2 merge unless manually exited.