From a94c4c08956c2828731c22bbe79c06dff80231cb Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2023 11:51:24 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 01/14] initialize FAQ section & move faq -> mixnodes-faq --- documentation/operators/src/{faq.md => faq/mixnodes-faq.md} | 0 1 file changed, 0 insertions(+), 0 deletions(-) rename documentation/operators/src/{faq.md => faq/mixnodes-faq.md} (100%) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/mixnodes-faq.md similarity index 100% rename from documentation/operators/src/faq.md rename to documentation/operators/src/faq/mixnodes-faq.md From cd89f4866aac6b1d674936f014a66e9f4ea589f5 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2023 11:58:32 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 02/14] initialize faq/smoosh-faq.md page --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 0 1 file changed, 0 insertions(+), 0 deletions(-) create mode 100644 documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..e69de29bb2 From 63714092df429d82c8dacf9c14a34bd4bb0b4f83 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2023 13:33:26 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 03/14] gathered community questions & nym team answers --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 88 +++++++++++++++++++ 1 file changed, 88 insertions(+) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index e69de29bb2..6338dd859d 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -0,0 +1,88 @@ +# Project Smoosh - FAQ + +> We aim on purpose to make minimal changes to reward scheme and software. We're just 'smooshing' together stuff we already debugged and know works. +> -- Harry Halpin, Nym CEO + +This page refer to the changes which are planned for Q3 and Q4 2023. As this is a transition period in the beginning (September 2023) the [Mix Nodes FAQ page](./mixnodes-faq.md) holds more answersd to the current setup as project smoosh refers to the eventual setup. As project smoosh gets progressively implemented the answers on this page will become to be more relevant to the current state and eventually this FAQ page will become to be the main Mix Nodesd FAQ page. + +If any questions are not answered or it's not clear for you in which stage project smoosh is right now, please reach out in Node Operators [Matrix room](https://matrix.to/#/#operators:nymtech.chat). + +## Overview + +### What is project smoosh? + +As we shared in our blog post article [*What does it take to build the wolds most powerful VPN*](please read this [blog post](https://blog.nymtech.net/what-does-it-take-to-build-the-worlds-most-powerful-vpn-d351a76ec4e6), Project smoosh is: + +*"...a nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. + +By simplifying the components, adding VPN features and supporting new node operators, the aim is to widen the geographical coverage of nodes and have significant redundancy, meaning plenty of operators to be able to meet demand. This requires strong token economic incentives as well as training and support for new node operators."* + +## Technical Questions + +### What are the changes? + +_Project smoosh will have three steps:_ + +1. Combine the `gateway` and `network-requester`. +2. Combine all the nodes in the Nym Mixnet into one binary, that is `mixnode`, `gateway` (entry and exit) and `network-requester`. +3. Make a selection button (command/argument/flag) for operators to choose whether they want their node to provide all or just some of the functions nodes have in the Nym Mixnet. Not everyone will be able/want to run an exit `gateway` for example. + +The softwarte will be the same, just instead of multiple binaries, there will be one Nym Mixnet node binary. Delegations will remain on as they are now, per our token economics (staking, saturation etc) + +### What is the change from allow list to deny list? + +The operators running `gateways` would have to “open” their nodes to a wider range of online services, in a similar fashion to Tor exit relays. The main change will be to expand the original short allow list to a more permissive setup. An exit policy will constrain the hosts that the users of the Nym VPN and Mixnet can connect to. This will be done in an effort to protect the operators, as Gateways will act both as SOCKS5 Network Requesters, and exit nodes for IP traffic from Nym VPN and Mixnet clients. + +### Can I run a mix node only? + +Yes, to run a mix node only is an option. However it will be less rewarded as nodes providing option for gateway due to the work and risk their operators have. + +## Token Economics & Rewards + +### What are the incentives for the node operator? + +In the original setup there were no incentives to run a `network-requester`. After the transition all the users will buy multiple tickets of zkNyms credentials and use those as [anonymous e-cash](https://arxiv.org/abs/2303.08221) to pay for their data traffic (Nym API will do the do cryptographical checks to prevent double-spending). All collected fees get distributed to all active nodes proportionally to their work by the end of each epoch. + +### How does this change the token economics? + +The token economics will stay the same as they are, same goes for the reward algorithm. In practice the distribution of rewards will benefit more the operators who run open gateways. + +### How are the rewards distributed? + +As each operator can choose what roles their nodes provide, the nodes which work as open gateways will have higher rewards because they are the most important to keep up and stable. Besides that the operators of gateways may be exposed to more complication and possible legal risks. + +The nodes which are initialized to run as mix nodes and gateways will be chosen to be on top of the active set before the ones working only as a mix node. + +We are considering to turn off the rewards for non-open gateways to incentivize operators to run the open ones. Mix nodes on 'standby' will not be rewarded (as they are not being used). + +The more roles an operator will allow their node to provide the bigger reward ratio which will have huge performance benefits for the end-users. + + +### How will be the staking and inflation after project smoosh? + +We must run tests to see how many users pay. We may need to keep inflation on if not enough people pay to keep high quality gateways on in the early stage of the transition. That would mean keeping staking on for gateways. Staking will always be on for mix nodes. + +### When project smooth will be launched, it would be the mixmining pool that will pay for the gateway rewards based on amount of traffic routed ? + +Yes, the same pool. Nym's aim is to do minimal modifications. The only real modification on the smart contract side will be to get into top X of 'active set' operators will need to have open gateway function enabled. + +### What does this mean for the current delegators? + +From an operator standpoint, it shall just be a standard Nym upgrade, a new optiion to run the gateway software on your node. Delegators should not have to re-delegate. + +## Legal Questions + +### Are there any legal concerns for the operators? + +So far the general line is running a gateway is not illegal (unless you are in Iran, China, and a few other places) and due to encryption/mixing less risky than running a normal VPN node. For mix nodes, its very safe as they have no idea what packets they are mixing. + +There are several legal questions regarding to this and we would like to ask you to fill this [short survey](https://nymtech.typeform.com/exitnode). + +We'll have a thorough legal analysis out before hand and various resources from and for the community which we started to gather in the [Community Legal Forum](../legal/legal-forum.md). + +## Other Questions + +### What is the ETA of this transition? + +The step \#1 shall be done by the end of September, the rest will follow. Smoosh shall be finalized by the end of 2023 with our VPN. We should have the paper on sybil-resistant performance measurement techniques out in December. + From 4f396308617c8aeee1ddf388b3af4680269a381b Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2023 13:39:34 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 04/14] spell check --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 12 ++++++------ 1 file changed, 6 insertions(+), 6 deletions(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index 6338dd859d..3d79cd7ff0 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -3,15 +3,15 @@ > We aim on purpose to make minimal changes to reward scheme and software. We're just 'smooshing' together stuff we already debugged and know works. > -- Harry Halpin, Nym CEO -This page refer to the changes which are planned for Q3 and Q4 2023. As this is a transition period in the beginning (September 2023) the [Mix Nodes FAQ page](./mixnodes-faq.md) holds more answersd to the current setup as project smoosh refers to the eventual setup. As project smoosh gets progressively implemented the answers on this page will become to be more relevant to the current state and eventually this FAQ page will become to be the main Mix Nodesd FAQ page. +This page refer to the changes which are planned for Q3 and Q4 2023. As this is a transition period in the beginning (September 2023) the [Mix Nodes FAQ page](./mixnodes-faq.md) holds more answered to the current setup as project Smoosh refers to the eventual setup. As project Smoosh gets progressively implemented the answers on this page will become to be more relevant to the current state and eventually this FAQ page will become to be the main Mix Nodes FAQ page. -If any questions are not answered or it's not clear for you in which stage project smoosh is right now, please reach out in Node Operators [Matrix room](https://matrix.to/#/#operators:nymtech.chat). +If any questions are not answered or it's not clear for you in which stage project Smoosh is right now, please reach out in Node Operators [Matrix room](https://matrix.to/#/#operators:nymtech.chat). ## Overview -### What is project smoosh? +### What is project Smoosh? -As we shared in our blog post article [*What does it take to build the wolds most powerful VPN*](please read this [blog post](https://blog.nymtech.net/what-does-it-take-to-build-the-worlds-most-powerful-vpn-d351a76ec4e6), Project smoosh is: +As we shared in our blog post article [*What does it take to build the wolds most powerful VPN*](https://blog.nymtech.net/what-does-it-take-to-build-the-worlds-most-powerful-vpn-d351a76ec4e6), project Smoosh is: *"...a nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. @@ -58,7 +58,7 @@ We are considering to turn off the rewards for non-open gateways to incentivize The more roles an operator will allow their node to provide the bigger reward ratio which will have huge performance benefits for the end-users. -### How will be the staking and inflation after project smoosh? +### How will be the staking and inflation after project Smoosh? We must run tests to see how many users pay. We may need to keep inflation on if not enough people pay to keep high quality gateways on in the early stage of the transition. That would mean keeping staking on for gateways. Staking will always be on for mix nodes. @@ -68,7 +68,7 @@ Yes, the same pool. Nym's aim is to do minimal modifications. The only real modi ### What does this mean for the current delegators? -From an operator standpoint, it shall just be a standard Nym upgrade, a new optiion to run the gateway software on your node. Delegators should not have to re-delegate. +From an operator standpoint, it shall just be a standard Nym upgrade, a new option to run the gateway software on your node. Delegators should not have to re-delegate. ## Legal Questions From a8e7c3ca4967ba8e20c0e1e7eee296c32435892d Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2023 19:13:11 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 05/14] syntax fix --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index 3d79cd7ff0..9a6a9b0383 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ If any questions are not answered or it's not clear for you in which stage proje As we shared in our blog post article [*What does it take to build the wolds most powerful VPN*](https://blog.nymtech.net/what-does-it-take-to-build-the-worlds-most-powerful-vpn-d351a76ec4e6), project Smoosh is: -*"...a nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. +"*A nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. By simplifying the components, adding VPN features and supporting new node operators, the aim is to widen the geographical coverage of nodes and have significant redundancy, meaning plenty of operators to be able to meet demand. This requires strong token economic incentives as well as training and support for new node operators."* From 3c750f61e5ef1f845e93a5692d3bbdfd91800d47 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2023 19:14:31 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 06/14] syntax fix --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index 9a6a9b0383..a29b941ab9 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -27,7 +27,7 @@ _Project smoosh will have three steps:_ 2. Combine all the nodes in the Nym Mixnet into one binary, that is `mixnode`, `gateway` (entry and exit) and `network-requester`. 3. Make a selection button (command/argument/flag) for operators to choose whether they want their node to provide all or just some of the functions nodes have in the Nym Mixnet. Not everyone will be able/want to run an exit `gateway` for example. -The softwarte will be the same, just instead of multiple binaries, there will be one Nym Mixnet node binary. Delegations will remain on as they are now, per our token economics (staking, saturation etc) +The software will be the same, just instead of multiple binaries, there will be one Nym Mixnet node binary. Delegations will remain on as they are now, per our token economics (staking, saturation etc) ### What is the change from allow list to deny list? From f6a9d0b84330519bd76cab641ddb5c144dcc9ba4 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2023 07:45:14 +0000 Subject: [PATCH 07/14] formatting quotes --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 6 +++--- 1 file changed, 3 insertions(+), 3 deletions(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index a29b941ab9..8c7c936125 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ # Project Smoosh - FAQ -> We aim on purpose to make minimal changes to reward scheme and software. We're just 'smooshing' together stuff we already debugged and know works. +> We aim on purpose to make minimal changes to reward scheme and software. We're just 'smooshing' together stuff we already debugged and know works. > -- Harry Halpin, Nym CEO This page refer to the changes which are planned for Q3 and Q4 2023. As this is a transition period in the beginning (September 2023) the [Mix Nodes FAQ page](./mixnodes-faq.md) holds more answered to the current setup as project Smoosh refers to the eventual setup. As project Smoosh gets progressively implemented the answers on this page will become to be more relevant to the current state and eventually this FAQ page will become to be the main Mix Nodes FAQ page. @@ -13,9 +13,9 @@ If any questions are not answered or it's not clear for you in which stage proje As we shared in our blog post article [*What does it take to build the wolds most powerful VPN*](https://blog.nymtech.net/what-does-it-take-to-build-the-worlds-most-powerful-vpn-d351a76ec4e6), project Smoosh is: -"*A nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. +> "A nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. -By simplifying the components, adding VPN features and supporting new node operators, the aim is to widen the geographical coverage of nodes and have significant redundancy, meaning plenty of operators to be able to meet demand. This requires strong token economic incentives as well as training and support for new node operators."* +> By simplifying the components, adding VPN features and supporting new node operators, the aim is to widen the geographical coverage of nodes and have significant redundancy, meaning plenty of operators to be able to meet demand. This requires strong token economic incentives as well as training and support for new node operators." ## Technical Questions From 0171791188382c563e49643f2e647fafdfe4c7b8 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2023 07:59:19 +0000 Subject: [PATCH 08/14] syntax fix --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 4 ++-- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index 8c7c936125..8c30cd20fc 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -13,9 +13,9 @@ If any questions are not answered or it's not clear for you in which stage proje As we shared in our blog post article [*What does it take to build the wolds most powerful VPN*](https://blog.nymtech.net/what-does-it-take-to-build-the-worlds-most-powerful-vpn-d351a76ec4e6), project Smoosh is: -> "A nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. +> A nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. -> By simplifying the components, adding VPN features and supporting new node operators, the aim is to widen the geographical coverage of nodes and have significant redundancy, meaning plenty of operators to be able to meet demand. This requires strong token economic incentives as well as training and support for new node operators." +> By simplifying the components, adding VPN features and supporting new node operators, the aim is to widen the geographical coverage of nodes and have significant redundancy, meaning plenty of operators to be able to meet demand. This requires strong token economic incentives as well as training and support for new node operators. ## Technical Questions From c75fda0eb120bb5c2505419d3de4db7c604341aa Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2023 10:48:27 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 09/14] fix SUMMARY.md & links --- documentation/operators/src/.faq/mixnodes-faq.md | 1 + documentation/operators/src/.faq/smoosh-faq.md | 1 + documentation/operators/src/SUMMARY.md | 6 +++++- documentation/operators/src/faq.md | 1 + documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 2 +- documentation/operators/src/introduction.md | 2 +- 6 files changed, 10 insertions(+), 3 deletions(-) create mode 100644 documentation/operators/src/.faq/mixnodes-faq.md create mode 100644 documentation/operators/src/.faq/smoosh-faq.md create mode 100644 documentation/operators/src/faq.md diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/.faq/mixnodes-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/.faq/mixnodes-faq.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..ed0c7b841e --- /dev/null +++ b/documentation/operators/src/.faq/mixnodes-faq.md @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +# Mix Nodes diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/.faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/.faq/smoosh-faq.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..a1ebddda38 --- /dev/null +++ b/documentation/operators/src/.faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +# Project Smoosh diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/SUMMARY.md b/documentation/operators/src/SUMMARY.md index e5d89b14f5..0a7e0312a1 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/SUMMARY.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/SUMMARY.md @@ -18,7 +18,11 @@ - [Nyx Validator Setup](./nodes/validator-setup.md) - [Maintenance](./nodes/maintenance.md) - [Troubleshooting](./nodes/troubleshooting.md) -- [FAQ](./faq.md) + +# FAQ + +- [Mix Nodes](./faq/mixnodes-faq.md) +- [Project Smoosh](./faq/smoosh-faq.md) --- # Misc. diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..4514b4c106 --- /dev/null +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq.md @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +# FAQ diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index 8c30cd20fc..e4eec7e1ac 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -78,7 +78,7 @@ So far the general line is running a gateway is not illegal (unless you are in I There are several legal questions regarding to this and we would like to ask you to fill this [short survey](https://nymtech.typeform.com/exitnode). -We'll have a thorough legal analysis out before hand and various resources from and for the community which we started to gather in the [Community Legal Forum](../legal/legal-forum.md). +We'll have a thorough legal analysis out before hand and various resources from and for the community. ## Other Questions diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/introduction.md b/documentation/operators/src/introduction.md index 4050fe141c..27d9ab63db 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/introduction.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/introduction.md @@ -22,5 +22,5 @@ If you want to dive deeper into Nym's architecture, clients, nodes, and SDK exam **Maintenance, troubleshooting and FAQ** * [Maintenance](./nodes/maintenance.md) * [Troubleshooting](./nodes/troubleshooting.md) -* [FAQ](./faq.md) +* [FAQ](./faq/mixnodes-faq.md) From f76092e8e76242ce0088885a0414799ad4532e1b Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:40:58 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 10/14] clarified new smooshed gateway --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index e4eec7e1ac..b59dd766b4 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -35,7 +35,7 @@ The operators running `gateways` would have to “open” their nodes to a wider ### Can I run a mix node only? -Yes, to run a mix node only is an option. However it will be less rewarded as nodes providing option for gateway due to the work and risk their operators have. +Yes, to run a mix node only is an option. However it will be less rewarded as nodes providing option for `gateway` - meaning the *new smooshed gateway* (previously `gateway` and `network requester`)- due to the work and risk the operators have in comparison to running a `mixnode` only. ## Token Economics & Rewards From 53db649e84f931dd0736e3e3ca9da5dee020e711 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:44:50 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 11/14] steps timing explained & italic removed --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 5 +++-- 1 file changed, 3 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index b59dd766b4..fc49a150ed 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -21,13 +21,14 @@ As we shared in our blog post article [*What does it take to build the wolds mos ### What are the changes? -_Project smoosh will have three steps:_ +Project smoosh will have three steps: 1. Combine the `gateway` and `network-requester`. 2. Combine all the nodes in the Nym Mixnet into one binary, that is `mixnode`, `gateway` (entry and exit) and `network-requester`. 3. Make a selection button (command/argument/flag) for operators to choose whether they want their node to provide all or just some of the functions nodes have in the Nym Mixnet. Not everyone will be able/want to run an exit `gateway` for example. -The software will be the same, just instead of multiple binaries, there will be one Nym Mixnet node binary. Delegations will remain on as they are now, per our token economics (staking, saturation etc) +These three steps will be staggered over time - period of several months, and will be implemented one by one with enough time to take in feedback and fix bugs in between. +Generally, the software will be the same, just instead of multiple binaries, there will be one Nym Mixnet node binary. Delegations will remain on as they are now, per our token economics (staking, saturation etc) ### What is the change from allow list to deny list? From 805e1b87592a4ddb6a46b2cb227e65151710eadc Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:52:53 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 12/14] add NymAPI codebase link --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index fc49a150ed..9686a415e2 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -42,7 +42,7 @@ Yes, to run a mix node only is an option. However it will be less rewarded as no ### What are the incentives for the node operator? -In the original setup there were no incentives to run a `network-requester`. After the transition all the users will buy multiple tickets of zkNyms credentials and use those as [anonymous e-cash](https://arxiv.org/abs/2303.08221) to pay for their data traffic (Nym API will do the do cryptographical checks to prevent double-spending). All collected fees get distributed to all active nodes proportionally to their work by the end of each epoch. +In the original setup there were no incentives to run a `network-requester`. After the transition all the users will buy multiple tickets of zkNyms credentials and use those as [anonymous e-cash](https://arxiv.org/abs/2303.08221) to pay for their data traffic (`[Nym API](https://github.com/nymtech/nym/tree/master/nym-api)` will do the do cryptographical checks to prevent double-spending). All collected fees get distributed to all active nodes proportionally to their work by the end of each epoch. ### How does this change the token economics? From ec3aa7d8eb9178b0db9c7b316b55aa2a7d4a6647 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:58:00 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 13/14] time frame in intro & ETA delete --- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 8 +------- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 7 deletions(-) diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md index 9686a415e2..0b9172ccf8 100644 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md @@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ > We aim on purpose to make minimal changes to reward scheme and software. We're just 'smooshing' together stuff we already debugged and know works. > -- Harry Halpin, Nym CEO -This page refer to the changes which are planned for Q3 and Q4 2023. As this is a transition period in the beginning (September 2023) the [Mix Nodes FAQ page](./mixnodes-faq.md) holds more answered to the current setup as project Smoosh refers to the eventual setup. As project Smoosh gets progressively implemented the answers on this page will become to be more relevant to the current state and eventually this FAQ page will become to be the main Mix Nodes FAQ page. +This page refer to the changes which are planned to take place over Q3 and Q4 2023. As this is a transition period in the beginning (Q3 2023) the [Mix Nodes FAQ page](./mixnodes-faq.md) holds more answers to the current setup as project Smoosh refers to the eventual setup. As project Smoosh gets progressively implemented the answers on this page will become to be more relevant to the current state and eventually this FAQ page will be merged with the still relevant parts of the main Mix Nodes FAQ page. If any questions are not answered or it's not clear for you in which stage project Smoosh is right now, please reach out in Node Operators [Matrix room](https://matrix.to/#/#operators:nymtech.chat). @@ -81,9 +81,3 @@ There are several legal questions regarding to this and we would like to ask you We'll have a thorough legal analysis out before hand and various resources from and for the community. -## Other Questions - -### What is the ETA of this transition? - -The step \#1 shall be done by the end of September, the rest will follow. Smoosh shall be finalized by the end of 2023 with our VPN. We should have the paper on sybil-resistant performance measurement techniques out in December. - From 65de9d146dd19e3e8c87428732232909fa2a2005 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: serinko <97586125+serinko@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2023 12:20:19 +0200 Subject: [PATCH 14/14] removed redundant .faq dir --- .../operators/src/faq/mixnodes-faq.md | 57 ------------- documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md | 83 ------------------- 2 files changed, 140 deletions(-) delete mode 100644 documentation/operators/src/faq/mixnodes-faq.md delete mode 100644 documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/mixnodes-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/mixnodes-faq.md deleted file mode 100644 index 9bb2c6dec9..0000000000 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/mixnodes-faq.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,57 +0,0 @@ -# Frequently Asked Questions - -## Mixnet nodes - -### What determines the rewards when running a mix node? - -The stake required for a mix node to achieve maximum rewards is called mix node saturation point. This is calculated from the staking supply (all circulating supply + part of unlocked tokens). The target level of staking is to have 50% of the staking supply locked in mix nodes. - -The node stake saturation point, which we denote by Nsat, is given by the stake supply, target level of staking divided by the number of rewarded (active) nodes. - -This design ensures the nodes aim to have a same size of stake (reputation) which can be done by delegation staking, as well as it ensures that there is a decentralization of staking as any higher level of staked tokens per node results in worse rewards. On the contrary, the more mix nodes are active, the lower is Nsat. The equilibrium is reached when the staked tokens are delegated equally across the active mix-nodes and that's our basis for this incentive system. - -For more detailed calculation, read our blog post [Nym Token Economics update](https://blog.nymtech.net/nym-token-economics-update-fedff0ed5267). More info on staking can be found [here](https://blog.nymtech.net/staking-in-nym-introducing-mainnet-mixmining-f9bb1cbc7c36). And [here](https://blog.nymtech.net/want-to-stake-in-nym-here-is-how-to-choose-a-mix-node-to-delegate-nym-to-c3b862add165) is more info on how to choose a mix node for delegation. And finally an [update](https://blog.nymtech.net/quarterly-token-economic-parameter-update-b2862948710f) on token economics from July 2023. - -### Which VPS providers would you recommend? - -Consider in which jurisdiction you reside and where do you want to run a mix node. Do you want to pay by crypto or not and what are the other important particularities for your case? We always recommend operators to try to chose smaller and decentralized VPS providers over the most known ones controlling a majority of the internet. We receive some good feedback on these: Hertzner, DigitalOcean, Linode, Ghandi and Exoscale. Do your own research and share with the community. - - - -### What's the Sphinx packet size? - -The sizes are shown in the configs [here](https://github.com/nymtech/nym/blob/1ba6444e722e7757f1175a296bed6e31e25b8db8/common/nymsphinx/params/src/packet_sizes.rs#L12) (default is the one clients use, the others are for research purposes, not to be used in production as this would fragment the anonymity set). More info can be found [here](https://github.com/nymtech/nym/blob/4844ac953a12b29fa27688609ec193f1d560c996/common/nymsphinx/anonymous-replies/src/reply_surb.rs#L80). - -### Why a mix node and a gateway cannot be bond to the same wallet? - -Becauase of the way the smart contract works we keep it one-node one-address at the moment. - -### Which nodes are the most needed to be setup to strengthen Nym infrastructure and which ones bring rewards? - -Right now only mix nodes are rewarded. We're working on gateway and service payments. Gateways are the weak link right now due mostly to lack of incentivisation. Services like Network Requesters are obviously the most necessary for people to start using the platform, and we're working on smart contracts to allow for people to start advertising them the same way they do mix nodes. - -### Are mixnodes whitelisted? - -Nope, anyone can run a mix node. Purely reliant on the node's reputation (self stake + delegations) & routing score. - -## Validators and tokens - -### What's the difference between NYM and uNYM? - -1 NYM = 1 000 000 uNYM - - - -### Can I run a validator? - -We are currently working towards building up a closed set of reputable validators. You can ask us for coins to get in, but please don't be offended if we say no - validators are part of our system's core security and we are starting out with people we already know or who have a solid reputation. - -### Why is validator set entry whitelisted? - -We understand that the early days of the Nyx blockchain will face possible vulnerabilities in terms of size - easy to disrupt or halt the chain if a malicious party entered with a large portion of stake. Besides that, there are some legal issues we need to address before we can distribute the validator set in a fully permissions fashion. - -### Why does Nym do many airdrops? - -It is part of ensuring decentralisation - we need to avoid a handful of people having too much control over the token and market. Of course ideally people will stake the tokens and contribute to the project at this stage. We run surveys to better understand what people are doing with their tokens and what usability issues there are for staking. Any feedback is appreciated as it helps us improve all aspects of using the token and participating in the ecosystem. diff --git a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md b/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md deleted file mode 100644 index 0b9172ccf8..0000000000 --- a/documentation/operators/src/faq/smoosh-faq.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,83 +0,0 @@ -# Project Smoosh - FAQ - -> We aim on purpose to make minimal changes to reward scheme and software. We're just 'smooshing' together stuff we already debugged and know works. -> -- Harry Halpin, Nym CEO - -This page refer to the changes which are planned to take place over Q3 and Q4 2023. As this is a transition period in the beginning (Q3 2023) the [Mix Nodes FAQ page](./mixnodes-faq.md) holds more answers to the current setup as project Smoosh refers to the eventual setup. As project Smoosh gets progressively implemented the answers on this page will become to be more relevant to the current state and eventually this FAQ page will be merged with the still relevant parts of the main Mix Nodes FAQ page. - -If any questions are not answered or it's not clear for you in which stage project Smoosh is right now, please reach out in Node Operators [Matrix room](https://matrix.to/#/#operators:nymtech.chat). - -## Overview - -### What is project Smoosh? - -As we shared in our blog post article [*What does it take to build the wolds most powerful VPN*](https://blog.nymtech.net/what-does-it-take-to-build-the-worlds-most-powerful-vpn-d351a76ec4e6), project Smoosh is: - -> A nick-name by CTO Dave Hrycyszyn and Chief Scientist Claudia Diaz for the work they are currently doing to “smoosh” Nym nodes so that the same operator can serve alternately as mix node, gateway or VPN node. This requires careful calibration of the Nym token economics, for example, only nodes with the highest reputation for good quality service will be in the VPN set and have the chance to earn higher rewards. - -> By simplifying the components, adding VPN features and supporting new node operators, the aim is to widen the geographical coverage of nodes and have significant redundancy, meaning plenty of operators to be able to meet demand. This requires strong token economic incentives as well as training and support for new node operators. - -## Technical Questions - -### What are the changes? - -Project smoosh will have three steps: - -1. Combine the `gateway` and `network-requester`. -2. Combine all the nodes in the Nym Mixnet into one binary, that is `mixnode`, `gateway` (entry and exit) and `network-requester`. -3. Make a selection button (command/argument/flag) for operators to choose whether they want their node to provide all or just some of the functions nodes have in the Nym Mixnet. Not everyone will be able/want to run an exit `gateway` for example. - -These three steps will be staggered over time - period of several months, and will be implemented one by one with enough time to take in feedback and fix bugs in between. -Generally, the software will be the same, just instead of multiple binaries, there will be one Nym Mixnet node binary. Delegations will remain on as they are now, per our token economics (staking, saturation etc) - -### What is the change from allow list to deny list? - -The operators running `gateways` would have to “open” their nodes to a wider range of online services, in a similar fashion to Tor exit relays. The main change will be to expand the original short allow list to a more permissive setup. An exit policy will constrain the hosts that the users of the Nym VPN and Mixnet can connect to. This will be done in an effort to protect the operators, as Gateways will act both as SOCKS5 Network Requesters, and exit nodes for IP traffic from Nym VPN and Mixnet clients. - -### Can I run a mix node only? - -Yes, to run a mix node only is an option. However it will be less rewarded as nodes providing option for `gateway` - meaning the *new smooshed gateway* (previously `gateway` and `network requester`)- due to the work and risk the operators have in comparison to running a `mixnode` only. - -## Token Economics & Rewards - -### What are the incentives for the node operator? - -In the original setup there were no incentives to run a `network-requester`. After the transition all the users will buy multiple tickets of zkNyms credentials and use those as [anonymous e-cash](https://arxiv.org/abs/2303.08221) to pay for their data traffic (`[Nym API](https://github.com/nymtech/nym/tree/master/nym-api)` will do the do cryptographical checks to prevent double-spending). All collected fees get distributed to all active nodes proportionally to their work by the end of each epoch. - -### How does this change the token economics? - -The token economics will stay the same as they are, same goes for the reward algorithm. In practice the distribution of rewards will benefit more the operators who run open gateways. - -### How are the rewards distributed? - -As each operator can choose what roles their nodes provide, the nodes which work as open gateways will have higher rewards because they are the most important to keep up and stable. Besides that the operators of gateways may be exposed to more complication and possible legal risks. - -The nodes which are initialized to run as mix nodes and gateways will be chosen to be on top of the active set before the ones working only as a mix node. - -We are considering to turn off the rewards for non-open gateways to incentivize operators to run the open ones. Mix nodes on 'standby' will not be rewarded (as they are not being used). - -The more roles an operator will allow their node to provide the bigger reward ratio which will have huge performance benefits for the end-users. - - -### How will be the staking and inflation after project Smoosh? - -We must run tests to see how many users pay. We may need to keep inflation on if not enough people pay to keep high quality gateways on in the early stage of the transition. That would mean keeping staking on for gateways. Staking will always be on for mix nodes. - -### When project smooth will be launched, it would be the mixmining pool that will pay for the gateway rewards based on amount of traffic routed ? - -Yes, the same pool. Nym's aim is to do minimal modifications. The only real modification on the smart contract side will be to get into top X of 'active set' operators will need to have open gateway function enabled. - -### What does this mean for the current delegators? - -From an operator standpoint, it shall just be a standard Nym upgrade, a new option to run the gateway software on your node. Delegators should not have to re-delegate. - -## Legal Questions - -### Are there any legal concerns for the operators? - -So far the general line is running a gateway is not illegal (unless you are in Iran, China, and a few other places) and due to encryption/mixing less risky than running a normal VPN node. For mix nodes, its very safe as they have no idea what packets they are mixing. - -There are several legal questions regarding to this and we would like to ask you to fill this [short survey](https://nymtech.typeform.com/exitnode). - -We'll have a thorough legal analysis out before hand and various resources from and for the community. -