> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://whitepaper.litho.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://whitepaper.litho.ai/docs/quickstart/validator-setup.md).

# Validator setup

The Makalu testnet validator onboarding guide is maintained at [docs.litho.ai](https://docs.litho.ai/docs/testnet/validators). Its source is [`content/docs/testnet/validators.mdx`](https://github.com/KaJLabs/lithosphere/tree/main/content/docs/testnet/validators.mdx) in this repository, with the Docsify publication mirror at [`docs/testnet/validators.md`](/docs/testnet/validators.md). It covers isolated testnet identities, node setup, registration, verification, monitoring, and the rehearsal evidence expected before a separate mainnet application.

The repository-hosted companion guide for applications, approval stages, commission/stake planning, and the September 2026 cohort is [LITHO mainnet validator onboarding](/docs/validators/onboarding.md).

Use the network table in the relevant guide before running any command. Makalu uses Cosmos chain ID `lithosphere_700777-2` and EVM chain ID `700777`. LITHO Mainnet uses `lithosphere_9005-1` and `9005`. Never reuse Makalu keys, genesis, snapshots, peers, or transaction inputs on mainnet.