Proof of Stake, or PoS, is a consensus mechanism where participants lock up, or stake, crypto for the chance to validate transactions and earn rewards. The more that is staked, the greater the chance of being chosen.

How it compares to mining

Because it does not rely on energy-intensive mining, PoS generally uses far less power than Proof of Work. Validators who act dishonestly can lose part of their stake, which discourages bad behaviour.