Overview
Rocket Pool is a decentralized Ethereum staking protocol launched in November 2021, designed to make staking more accessible for individual users. It supports a liquid staking model where users can participate with small amounts of ETH, and it was built to avoid the centralization of staking infrastructure. Its native token is RPL.
How It Works
Rocket Pool uses a network of permissionless node operators who stake a minimum of 8 ETH plus RPL collateral to run validators. Users can deposit any amount of ETH and receive rETH, a liquid staking token that represents their share of the pool. The RPL collateral and a community-run oracle network are designed to keep the system safe and to prevent operator misbehavior.
Why It Matters
Rocket Pool is one of the few major staking protocols that directly attacks centralization: anyone can run a node, and the protocol does not rely on a small operator set. Its rETH is a widely used liquid staking derivative with a conservative design. Its trade-offs include a smaller pool of liquidity and the need for node operators to hold RPL collateral.
Related Concepts
Rocket Pool is a Liquid Staking protocol alongside Lido, and its rETH is used in Restaking and DeFi. It relies on Validators and node operators and is tracked as part of the staking ecosystem by DefiLlama.