DVT (Obol and SSV)

Sharding your validator key across multiple nodes for higher resilience and security.

Overview

Distributed Validator Technology (DVT) splits a single Ethereum validator key into multiple independent shares and distributes them across different nodes. By sharding your key this way, no single node compromise or outage can disable your validator, boosting both uptime and security.

Implementations

Obol

  • Protocol Origin: Developed by Obol Labs
  • Architecture:
    • Charon middleware client layered on top of existing validator software
    • Uses P2P networking via ENRs and discv5 to exchange threshold key shares

SSV.network

  • Protocol Origin: Developed by the SSV.network team
  • Architecture:
    • Standalone validator client and network protocol
    • Generates a full private key, fragments it into Shamir-based shares encrypted to each operator
    • Leverages a gossip-based pub-sub topology for share exchange

Obol vs SSV.network: Feature Comparison

FeatureObolSSV.network
Development LeadObol LabsSSV.network team
Client TypeCharon middleware integrates with existing clientsFully standalone DVT client and protocol
Key GenerationDistributed key generation—full key never resides on one nodeCentral generation then split into encrypted Shamir shares
CommunicationDirect P2P links between operators via ENRs & discv5Gossip-based pub-sub network for share broadcast & discovery
Threshold SchemeAggregates BLS12-381 threshold signatures via CharonMPC threshold combining secret sharing with on-chain consensus

Why Pier Two?

  • Proven Expertise
    We’ve deployed and managed both Obol and SSV.network clusters in production, ensuring institutional-grade uptime and resilience.

  • End-to-End Management
    From distributed key generation and network onboarding to 24/7 monitoring and seamless upgrades, Pier Two handles every step of your DVT deployment.

  • White-Label Solutions
    Offer DVT services under your own brand with custom dashboards, APIs, and turnkey integration—without adding to your team’s workload.

  • Seamless ETH Staking Integration
    Our DVT layer slots into your existing ETH staking stack—whether staking via direct delegation, API, UI, or through custodians—without disruption.

Pier Two – Institutional-grade DVT services, fully managed and white-label ready.