> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://rocket-pool-r-or-guide-tm.gitbook.io/en-us/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://rocket-pool-r-or-guide-tm.gitbook.io/en-us/readme.md).
# Rocket Pool® | Guide™
With **Ethereum’s transition to Proof-of-Stake (PoS)**, staking has become a crucial part of securing the network and earning rewards. However, traditional staking requires **a minimum of 32 ETH**, which can be a significant barrier for many users.\
Rocket Pool
This is where [**Rocket Pool**](https://rocket-pool.us) comes in—a **decentralized Ethereum staking protocol** that allows users to participate in staking with **as little as 0.01 ETH**, making Ethereum staking more accessible and decentralized.
In this guide, we’ll explore **how Rocket Pool works, its benefits, and how you can start staking today**.
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### **What is Rocket Pool?**
**Rocket Pool** is a **decentralized, non-custodial staking protocol** designed to make Ethereum staking more **accessible, secure, and decentralized**. It allows users to:
✔ **Stake ETH without needing 32 ETH**\
✔ **Earn staking rewards with as little as 0.01 ETH**\
✔ **Run a node with just 8 ETH (instead of 32 ETH)**\
✔ **Participate in securing Ethereum while maintaining decentralization**
By using **Rocket Pool**, users can **earn passive income** while contributing to Ethereum’s security and decentralization.
***
### **How Does Rocket Pool Work?**
Rocket Pool operates in **two main ways**, catering to **different types of users**:
#### **1. Stakers (Users with Less than 32 ETH)**
For users who **don’t have 32 ETH** but still want to earn staking rewards, Rocket Pool provides an easy way to participate.
✔ **Deposit as little as 0.01 ETH**\
✔ **Receive rETH (Rocket Pool Staked ETH), a liquid staking token**\
✔ **rETH automatically accrues staking rewards**
This allows users to stake **without locking up ETH** or managing a validator node.
***
#### **2. Node Operators (Users Who Want to Run a Validator with 8+ ETH)**
For more advanced users, **Rocket Pool allows users to run validator nodes with just 8 ETH** instead of 32 ETH.
✔ **Deposit 8 ETH instead of 32 ETH**\
✔ **Earn additional rewards from both staking and commission fees**\
✔ **Support Ethereum’s decentralization by running a node**
Rocket Pool matches **your 8 ETH with 24 ETH from the staking pool**, forming **a full validator (32 ETH)**, which then earns rewards.
This **reduces the capital requirement** for running a node while still allowing **decentralized participation**.
***
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### **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
#### **1. What is Rocket Pool?**
Rocket Pool is a **decentralized Ethereum staking protocol** that allows users to stake ETH with **as little as 0.01 ETH** or run validator nodes with **just 8 ETH instead of 32 ETH**.
#### **2. What is rETH?**
rETH is **Rocket Pool’s liquid staking token**, which **automatically accrues staking rewards** over time. Users can **hold, trade, or use rETH in DeFi applications** while still earning rewards.
#### **3. Is Rocket Pool Safe?**
Yes! Rocket Pool is **fully decentralized and non-custodial**, meaning users **always maintain control of their assets**. The protocol has **undergone extensive audits** to ensure security.
#### **4. How much can I earn with Rocket Pool?**
✔ Stakers earn **staking rewards (variable APY based on Ethereum staking yields)**\
✔ Node operators earn **staking rewards + commission fees**\
✔ The **exact yield depends on network staking rates**
#### **5. Can I unstake my ETH?**
✔ **If you hold rETH, you can swap it at any time for ETH on decentralized exchanges**\
✔ **Node operators must follow Ethereum’s withdrawal process for validator unstaking**
#### **6. Does Rocket Pool have fees?**
✔ **A small protocol fee** is taken from staking rewards to support the network\
✔ **Node operators earn additional commissions to compensate for fees**
#### **7. How is Rocket Pool different from Lido or other staking services?**
✔ **Fully decentralized (unlike Lido, which has centralized elements)**\
✔ **Users can run validator nodes with just 8 ETH (Lido requires 32 ETH per node)**\
✔ **rETH is a liquid staking token that accrues rewards automatically**
***
### **Conclusion: Why Rocket Pool is the Best Way to Stake ETH**
With **Ethereum staking becoming the standard**, users need **a decentralized, secure, and flexible staking solution**. **Rocket Pool offers the best of all worlds**—whether you’re a small staker or a node operator.
✔ **Stake ETH with as little as 0.01 ETH**\
✔ **Run a validator node with only 8 ETH instead of 32 ETH**\
✔ **Earn passive income while helping secure the Ethereum network**\
✔ **Enjoy full decentralization and control over your assets**
For anyone looking to **participate in Ethereum staking without barriers**, [**Rocket Pool**](https://rocket-pool.us) **is the best choice**.
### Jump right in
