XIP-54: XMTP network node operator qualification criteria

jha · February 5, 2025, 9:10pm

XIPs/xip-54-node-operator-qualifications.md

main

---
xip: 54
title: XMTP network node operator qualification criteria
description: Criteria and process for selecting XMTP node operators
authors: J-Ha Hasegawa (@jhaaaa), Nicholas Molnar (@neekolas)
discussions-to: https://community.xmtp.org/t/xip-54-xmtp-network-node-operator-qualification-criteria/868
status: Living
type: Process
created: 2025-02-03
updated: 2025-12-04
---

## Abstract

This XIP proposes a set of qualification criteria and a selection process for XMTP node operators. Unlike many permissionless networks, XMTP currently requires a limited group of node operators to ensure cost-effective, high-performance messaging while maintaining robust **censorship resistance**. XMTP Mainnet will begin with a limit of 7 node operators and this number may evolve over time. A censorship-resistant network is able to ensure that no single entity can block, alter, or remove data—essentially guaranteeing that the system operates as intended, regardless of external pressures.

This XIP introduces diversity-based requirements—geographic, geopolitical, cultural, and industry—that help mitigate collusion and regulatory pressures that can threaten censorship resistance.

## Motivation

This file has been truncated. show original

aditya_encapsulate · February 8, 2025, 1:21pm

Thanks, @jha, for putting up this post.

We believe we meet all the criteria mentioned in the post, and Encapsulate would love to apply as node operators. Curious—who should we get in touch with for this?

jha · February 8, 2025, 5:26pm

Hello @aditya_encapsulate - thank YOU for your interest and taking the time to review the criteria! This is exactly the place to reach out – the decentralization team will be in touch via the email in your Discourse profile.

Sending you and the team all the best builds!

jaybuidl · February 10, 2025, 1:03pm

Hello @jha and all, I would love to apply. I have been a solo node operator for many years and I am also involved in a large Gnosis validator effort at Kleros. Happy to get involved!

jha · February 11, 2025, 4:01pm

Hello @jaybuidl - thank YOU for your interest and for taking the time to review the criteria! This is the perfect place to reach out – the decentralization team will be in touch via the email in your Discourse profile.

Sending you and the team all the best buidls!

jininja · May 14, 2025, 3:03am

Hello @jha

I submitted the node operator application form about a month ago but haven’t received any response yet. I just wanted to kindly check in and ask if the selection results have been finalized or if the review process is still ongoing.

Also, I was wondering whether being an independent node operator (not affiliated with any organization) might affect my eligibility.

If there is a specific contact or process through which I can follow up on this, I would be grateful if you could share that information.