Staking Aptos tokens offers investors a passive way to earn rewards while playing a crucial role in the network's growth. The Pontem Wallet, known for its intuitive interface, simplifies this process by enabling users to select a validator for staking easily. This method is much less complex than the intricacies of running a node. It's safe, presents potential earnings, and allows stakers to actively participate in network governance, thereby contributing to the network's overall security and decentralization.

Our guide will provide an overview of the Aptos ecosystem, explore the Pontem Wallet's unique features, and walk you through setting up the wallet. We will then guide you through the staking process, helping you become an active supporter of the Aptos blockchain.

Let’s dive in.

What is Aptos?

Aptos is a layer-1 blockchain designed by key contributors to Facebook's Diem project, Mo Shaikh (CEO) and Avery Ching (CTO). This blockchain stands out for its focus on high throughput and robust security features. It operates on a Proof of Stake mechanism and utilizes the Move programming language, designed for creating scalable and secure smart contracts. The AptosBFT consensus protocol, now in its latest iteration, is engineered to increase transaction efficiency through reduced latency and the ability to process many transactions concurrently.

As a blockchain that undergoes continuous upgrades, Aptos is preparing to achieve substantial performance capabilities, aiming to manage up to 100,000 transactions per second once fully operational. Ongoing updates and detailed release notes are consistently shared with the community via platforms like Discord and GitHub.

The Aptos Token (APT)

The APT token is the native cryptocurrency of the Aptos blockchain. It is used to pay transaction fees and participate in network governance. The design of the APT token aims to ensure interoperability within the Aptos ecosystem and to streamline the management of various types of tokens, including fungible and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).  

Users have complete control over their APT tokens, which come with customizable on-chain properties, possibly eliminating the need for off-chain metadata. The Aptos token standard also seeks to reduce resource use and costs, particularly when creating many NFTs​​.

Exploring the Pontem Wallet

The Pontem Wallet is a non-custodial mobile application designed specifically for the Aptos ecosystem. It provides a secure and versatile experience for cryptocurrency users, enabling them to easily purchase, store, transfer, and exchange tokens, including NFTs. Developed in collaboration with Aptos Labs and utilizing the Move programming language, the Pontem Wallet is a key component in the initiative to foster broader blockchain adoption.

What distinguishes the Pontem Wallet is its ability to directly interact with decentralized applications (dApps), such as NFT marketplaces, through its user-friendly interface. The wallet is available for iOS and Android platforms, adhering to rigorous privacy and security standards to uphold its non-custodial commitment.

How To Set Up and Use Your Pontem Wallet

Follow the steps if you want to set up and use your Pontem Wallet. They're clear and concise, ensuring you can manage your digital assets swiftly. Let's dive in.

Step 1: Installing the Extension

To initiate the setup of your Pontem Wallet, start by installing the browser extension:

• Visit the Pontem Wallet's official website.
• Look for the download link or button for the Pontem Wallet extension on the webpage.
• Click on Pontem Wallet or Firefox ADD-ONS (if you're using the Firefox browser).

• For Chrome or Brave users, click on Add to Chrome. If you're on Firefox, click on Add to Firefox.

• Confirm the addition by clicking Add extension when prompted by your browser.

Step 2: Create A New Wallet 

• Click on the Create Wallet button to start the setup process.

• Enter a strong password that you have yet to use elsewhere. Remember, this is key to protecting your assets.
• Re-enter the password for confirmation to ensure it's accurate.

Please note: Ensure the security of your new wallet by writing down your password and keeping it in a safe place where only you can access it. 

• Read through the terms of use; if they align with your expectations, tick in the checkbox. With that settled, click on Create to create your new Pontem wallet. 

If you want to manage your wallets conveniently from anywhere, consider installing the mobile app, designed for on-the-go access. Click Next to finalize Pontem wallet creation in your browser.

Congratulations on successfully integrating your wallet! For convenience, pin the wallet extension to your browser toolbar. This will keep it readily accessible with a single click whenever required.

Step 3: Confirm Your Seed Phrase

Click on the wallet extension in the top corner of your browser to access your wallet. You'll see a message requesting confirmation of your mnemonic. Click the Resolve option next to the message to view the seed phrase. Copy the seed phrase to a separate notepad, write down the mnemonic, and then confirm the prompt below it.

After saving your mnemonic and confirming the prompt, click Continue. On the next screen, fill in the blanks and click Confirm to finish the mnemonic verification process.

Once the mnemonic verification is done, you will be redirected to your wallet's home screen.

Step 4: Fund Your Wallet And Start Earning

Begin by transferring funds into your wallet to activate it. After your wallet is funded, go to the dApps section and click on the Native APT staking banner to start earning with your deposited assets, or search for Aptos Native Staking in the Native DApps section.

Step 5: The Staking Process

• First, connect your wallet. Then, select Everstake as your validator from the list on the staking page. Locate the Everstake pool and click Stake. Enter the number of tokens you wish to delegate.

• Make sure to stake at least the minimum required amount of 11 APT.

Step 6: Staking Complete 

Congratulations! You have successfully delegated your tokens. They are now staked with Everstake, and you're all set to earn rewards.

Conclusion

Following this guide, you can stake Aptos with the Pontem Wallet. Everstake is highly recommended as a validator, entrusted by over 625,000 users across over 70 blockchain networks. It is a self-sufficient, thriving company with a dedicated team of over 125 employees, managing more than 8,000 nodes that contribute to various blockchain protocols, including bridges and oracles.

Selecting a dependable validator like Everstake is critical, as it substantially impacts the staking rewards you accrue. Please contact our Aptos Blockchain Manager on X (Twitter) if you have any questions or need assistance.

If you want to delegate your Aptos tokens with Everstake via Pontem Wallet, click here to start!