# Operators | Compute to Earn $AI3 ## Running an operator node Anyone with a sufficiently powerful computer can pledge compute to the Autonomys Network in exchange for [$AI3 transaction fees](/autonomys-network/rewards-and-fees.md). Operator nodes validate and execute transactions on [decoupled execution (DecEx) domains](/autonomys-network/decoupled-execution.md) sharing the security of the [farmer](/auto-suite/spaceacres-cli/farmers.md)-maintained consensus chain. Operators (and [nominators](/auto-suite/block-explorer-and-staking-interface/nominators.md)) [stake](/autonomys-network/decoupled-execution/staking.md) $AI3 to their node which is slashed if they are dishonest, providing crypto-economic security by disincentivizing bad actors. Fees incentivize operators to maintain high standards of reliability and efficiency in transaction processing as part of a self-sustaining ecosystem. ## Command Line Interface (CLI) To check the hardware requirements for running an operator node, and to get started via CLI, visit our [operator documentation](http://docs.autonomys.xyz/staking/operator/register). --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://academy.autonomys.xyz/auto-suite/spaceacres-cli/operators.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.