How to Stake ICP: A Guide to the Network Nervous System (NNS)

You've learned about the Internet Computer's ambitious vision to become a "World Computer." You know that the ICP coin isn't just an asset; it's the key to governing the entire network.

Now, it's time to move from being an observer to being a participant. Staking ICP is your way to get a vote, help steer the future of the internet, and earn ICP staking rewards for your active contribution.

The process is unique and different from other blockchains. This guide will walk you through exactly how to stake ICP using its powerful governance system, the Network Nervous System (NNS).

Before You Start: Understanding Neurons

In the ICP ecosystem, you don't just "stake" your coins. You lock them up to create a neuron.

Think of the Network Nervous System (NNS) as the decentralized brain that controls the Internet Computer. A neuron is your voting share within that brain. By creating a neuron, you are committing
your ICP to the governance of the network. The NNS then rewards you for this commitment.

The 5 Steps to Staking ICP and Earning Rewards

Step 1: Acquire ICP (The Prerequisite)

Before you can create a neuron, you need the ICP coin. Your journey into ICP
governance starts on a secure and reliable exchange. Acquiring your ICP on a
platform like BYDFi ensures you get a fair market price and a safe environment
for your initial purchase.

Step 2: Access the NNS dApp

The entire staking and voting process happens on a special decentralized
application.

1. Go to the official NNS dApp

2. You will be prompted to create an "Internet Identity." This is your secure, blockchain-based login for the ICP ecosystem. Follow the instructions carefully and save your credentials.

Step 3: Transfer ICP to Your NNS Wallet

Inside the NNS dApp, you will find your personal ICP wallet address. Withdraw your ICP from BYDFi to this NNS wallet address.

Step 4: Create Your Neuron

This is the core of the staking process.

1. Inside the NNS, navigate to the "Neurons" tab and click "Stake Neuron."
2. Choose the amount of ICP you wish to stake (the minimum is 1 ICP).
3. Set the Dissolve Delay (CRITICAL STEP): This is the most important decision you will make. The dissolve delay is the length of time your neuron will be locked after you decide to "dissolve" it. A longer delay gives your neuron more voting power and earns you higher rewards.
• Minimum: 6 months (lower rewards)
• Maximum: 8 years (highest rewards)
• Warning: You cannot access your ICP principal until the dissolve delay timer has  finished. Choose a duration you are comfortable with.

Step 5: Configure Voting and Start Earning

Your neuron must vote on governance proposals to earn rewards. You can do this
manually, but for most users, the easiest way is to "follow" other
trusted neurons.

1. In your neuron's settings, choose to "Follow" other neurons on all topics.
2. The NNS provides default follow recommendations (like the DFINITY Foundation and the Internet Computer Association), which is a great, simple way to  start.

Once you have configured your neuron to vote, you're all set! It will now vote automatically on your behalf, and you will begin to accrue staking rewards daily.

[To refresh your memory on the core technology, read our full guide: What Is Internet Computer (ICP)?]

Ready to become a voting member of the World Computer? The first step is to acquire the asset. Buy ICP on the BYDFi spot market today.

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