> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://deepnode.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://deepnode.gitbook.io/docs/platform/roles.md).

# Roles

The DeepNode ecosystem is composed of modular roles that collectively support a decentralized AI execution pipeline. Each role performs a distinct function, from model creation and compute execution to validation, capital delegation, and governance. Participants can operate independently or in combined roles, depending on their resources, technical capacity, and objectives.

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#### Model Creators

Upload, register, and monetize AI models through the DeepNode marketplace.

Responsibilities\
Submit models, maintain metadata and documentation, ensure quality, and respond to feedback from validators and users.

Rewards\
Earn $DN from each successful model inference, receive bonded support from Backers, and build long-term reputation through consistent performance.

Requirements\
Machine-learning development experience and the ability to package models according to network standards and validation protocols.

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#### Miners

Provide decentralized compute infrastructure for AI model execution.

Responsibilities\
Operate the Node Execution Engine, maintain uptime, process inference tasks accurately, and deliver verified results within expected timeframes.

Rewards\
Earn $DN for each valid task completed. High performance (including uptime, accuracy, and reliability) increases future workload allocation. May also receive delegated stake from Stakers.

Requirements\
Reliable CPU/GPU hardware, stable internet connection, and technical ability to maintain node performance.

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#### Validators

Maintain accuracy, fairness, and trust across the network.

Responsibilities\
Validate models during onboarding, verify task outputs, assign trust scores, and monitor node and model behavior over time.

Rewards\
Earn $DN for timely and accurate validations. Higher trust scores lead to greater validation frequency and staking support.

Requirements\
Analytical and benchmarking expertise. Must remain independent and avoid conflicts of interest, including validating models or nodes they are financially associated with.

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#### Stakers

Strengthen the network by delegating $DN to trusted participants.

Responsibilities\
Stake tokens to Miners and/or Validators, monitor performance, reallocate stake when necessary, and participate in governance.

Rewards\
Share in rewards earned by supported participants and gain proportional voting power in governance.

Requirements\
Hold $DN and evaluate participant metrics, reputation scores, and historical reliability.

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#### Backers

Support high-potential models in exchange for a share of future revenue.

Responsibilities\
Allocate $DN to promising models and track validator feedback and performance metrics before bonding.

Rewards\
Receive a portion of model revenue based on adoption and usage. Early support can yield higher returns.

Requirements\
Sufficient $DN holdings and the ability to assess model quality, validator trust, and risk-reward profiles.

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#### Consumers

Access and utilize AI models for real-world applications.

Responsibilities\
Browse available models, submit execution requests via the marketplace or API, and provide feedback through ratings or usage analytics.

Rewards\
Access a wide selection of validated AI models at competitive costs while influencing model reputation through usage data.

Requirements\
Hold $DN to pay for inference tasks and review model metadata and validator scores to make informed selections.

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#### Domain Architects (Phase 2+)

Deploy and manage domain-specific AI subnets within the DeepNode ecosystem.

Responsibilities\
Design Domains with their own rules, economics, and governance. Coordinate local Miners and Validators to define incentives, and maintain quality.

Rewards\
Earn a share of transaction fees and activity generated within the Domain while building domain-level reputation and authority.

Requirements\
Expertise in AI specialization, economic design, and decentralized governance. Must stake sufficient $DN to initialize and sustain a Domain.

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#### Role Composability and Seperation

DeepNode roles are modular yet composable, allowing participants to engage across multiple layers while maintaining system integrity.

Common combinations:

* Creator + Miners
* Staker + Validator
* Consumer + Backer

Separation of duties:

Validators cannot validate models they created or hold financial interest in.\
On-chain governance and transparent audits enforce accountability and prevent conflicts of interest.