How To Stake KSM on Polkadot – A Step-by-Step Guide

In this article, I will discuss how to stake KSM on Polkadot, a process that allows you to earn rewards while supporting the network.

By following a few simple steps, you can securely stake your KSM tokens, choose the right validators, and maximize your staking rewards. Let’s dive into the process of staking KSM and how to do it efficiently.

What is Kusama (KSM)?

Kusama (KSM) is a decentralized and open-source network which is frequently called the “canary network” of Polkadot. It acts as an experimental sandbox for new projects that need to be relocated to Polkadot. KSM token holders have a stake in the governance of the network, being able to vote on minus any proposals and changes.

In addition, passive users who stake their tokens participate in securing the network, validating transactions, and decision making to earn rewards. With Kusama, one can achieve swift innovation while conducting low-risk testing.

How To Stake KSM on Polkadot

Step 1: Download & Install Fearless Wallet

– Get **Fearless Wallet** from the [official website](https://fearlesswallet.io/) or your app store.

– Create a new wallet or import an existing one using a seed phrase.  

– Proceed to set a password and ensure you have the correct settings for your recovery phrase backup.  

Step 2: Add Funds to Your KSM Wallet

– In the **Receive** section, grab your KSM wallet address.  

– Move KSM from an exchange or other wallet to your KSM wallet in Fearless.  

Step 3: Go to The Staking Option

– Navigate to the **Staking** part of the app after opening the Fearless Wallet.  

– Change the staking network to **Kusama (KSM)**.  

Step 4: Decide on a Staking Method

– Pooled Nomination Auto-Stake: Select **Fearless Pools** if you want the easiest staking and wish to have the validators automatically chosen.  

– Manual Validator Nomination: For those who wish to have more control, you can manually choose as many as sixteen trusted validators.

Step 5: Your KSM Staking! 

– Click on **Stake** and input the portion of KSM you wish to bond.  

– Choose the preferred staking option of your choice (**Pool or Manual Validators**).  

– Sign and Validate the transaction using your Fearless Wallet password.  

Step 6: Tracking Performance & Claiming Rewards 

– Access the staking dashboard to monitor rewards and performance.  

– If you utilize staking pools, your rewards will be automatically compounded.  

– With manual staking, you will need to claim your rewards periodically from the **Payouts** section.  

Step 7: Withdraw and Unstake KSM

To unstake, go into **Staking → Unbond** and state how much you wish to unbond.  After this period, you are free to withdraw your KSM, but you must first go through the **7-day unbonding period.

Risks of Staking KSM

Slashing: The imposed sanctions is damaging for validators that engage in malevolent conduct or fail in their responsibilities resulting in funds being lost.

Validator Risk: Inactivity by the validator leads to loss or unrewarded contribution as well.

Liquidity Risk: Access to funds is barriered since KSM has to be staked for a certain amount of time (i.e 28 days).

Network Risk: Staking results can be impacted if there is a glitch or a breach in the polkadot/kusama systems.

Best Practices for Staking KSM

Select Trustworthy Validators: Make sure to examine the validator’s uptime as well as their overall effectiveness.

Widen Nomination: Shift your funds to different validators in order to protect yourself.

Evaluate Performance: Make sure to frequently evaluate the performance of your validators and make adjustments if necessary.

Protect Your Wallets: Risking staking keys should never be kept in untrustworthy wallets.

Stay on the Loop: Follow the news, especially the one related to the network, changes on staking and the situation of the validators.

What is The Best Wallet To Stake KSM?

Polkadot.js

Kusama staking is best done using Polkadot.js because of their user friendly UI and overall practicality. Users are able to directly engage in staking activities on the Kusama network, allowing for easy stakings of KSM tokens, validator selection, and reward management.

Available integration with Kusama allows an effortless experience for both novice and seasoned users alike.

Ledger (Hardware Wallet)

Using a Ledger hardware wallet makes staking KSM tokens on Polkadot.js or the Kusama app more secure. Hacks and malware can threaten your KSM tokens when stored online, but with a Ledger wallet, they are stored offline.

Your private keys will never leave the device, meaning there is added security when interacting with the Kusama network. This strategy is best for users who want to prioritize safety while staking KSM tokens.

Fearless Wallet

Fearless Wallet is a mobile wallet user-friendly for all users and offers KSM staking. Users can stake KSM tokens directly on the Kusama network and manage rewards with ease. Users with diverse crypto portfolios can take advantage of multi-chain support.

Because it is simple to use and offers strong security, a smooth staking experience is guaranteed which is perfect for those investing in Kusama.’

Why Stake KSM?

Pause for a second before we start the journey and contemplate why staking KSM is worth your time. Kusama employs a Nominated Proof of Stake (NPoS) voting system, so you, as a token holder, have the ability to “nominate” validators to secure the network, all while earning rewards.

It’s like supporting a team of blockchain defenders and getting paid for it! When you stake, you are helping to maintain Kusama’s orderly disorder (good kind) while earning a portion of the network’s rewards, which average about 10-15% per year, depending on a variety of factors.

In addition, Kusama’s low entry threshold (a minimum of 0.1 KSM to stake) is great for new and veteran crypto enthusiasts alike. What are we waiting for? Let’s get staking!

Bonus Tips for Staking Success

Be Patient for Unbonding: Stopping your staking action requires prior unbonding of 7 days on Kusama. You are advised to plan ahead.

Prevent Slashing: Select dependable validators to reduce the chances of losing KSM due to KSM’s misbehavior.

Regularly Check: Following Kusama’s community on X or the Polkadot Wiki will help you stay informed as things tend to change quickly.

Pros of Staking KSM on Polkadot

• Earn Rewards: Staking KSM allows you to earn passive rewards for supporting the network.
• Network Security: By staking, you help secure the Polkadot and Kusama networks.
• Flexible Options: Choose between nominating validators or using staking pools based on your preference.
• Governance Participation: Stakers can participate in Polkadot’s governance through the DOT token.

Cons of Staking KSM on Polkadot

• Liquidity Lockup: Staked KSM is locked for a period (e.g., 28 days), preventing access to funds.
• Slashing Risk: Validators may be penalized (slashed) for bad behavior or downtime, affecting your stake.
• Validator Selection Risk: Poor validator performance can reduce rewards or cause missed payouts.
• Complexity for Beginners: Some users may find it difficult to choose the right validators or manage staking effectively.

Conclusion

To sum up, staking KSM on Polkadot is very easy and goes with increasing the security of the network and earning rewards at the same time.

Choosing good validators or joining pools will guarantee you maximize your staking potential. As always, following best practices such as nominating diverse options and checking on validator performance will reduce risks while ensure an earned experience while staking.