> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.yelay.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.yelay.io/the-ylay-token/ylay-explained/yelay-nodes.md). # Yelay Nodes Yelay Nodes are a fundamental component of the Yelay ecosystem, playing a crucial role in the network's operation, security, and scalability. These nodes form the backbone of Yelay's infrastructure, enabling the efficient distribution of yield-generating opportunities and processing transactions within the network. Yelay Nodes are specialized participants in the network that contribute computational resources and YLAY tokens to support the platform's operations. They act as validators, processors, and distributors of yield-generating strategies across the Yelay ecosystem. ### Key Functions 1. Ensure network decentralization 2. Distribute YLAY token emissions 3. Allocate partner tokens Node operators must stake YLAY tokens, meet technical requirements, and offer incentives to attract stakers. Benefits include YLAY rewards, accelerated Infrastructure Credit generation, and delegation rewards. The economic model aligns node operators' interests with network health through proportional reward distribution, slashing mechanisms for unreliability, and competitive delegation incentives. As Yelay grows, nodes will play an increasingly important role in supporting new yield strategies, integrating with emerging DeFi protocols, and maintaining network efficiency at scale. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.yelay.io/the-ylay-token/ylay-explained/yelay-nodes.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.