DVT (Obol and SSV)

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

Feature	Obol	SSV.network
Development Lead	Obol Labs	SSV.network team
Client Type	Charon middleware integrates with existing clients	Fully standalone DVT client and protocol
Key Generation	Distributed key generation—full key never resides on one node	Central generation then split into encrypted Shamir shares
Communication	Direct P2P links between operators via ENRs & discv5	Gossip-based pub-sub network for share broadcast & discovery
Threshold Scheme	Aggregates BLS12-381 threshold signatures via Charon	MPC 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.