> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://xai-foundation.gitbook.io/xai-network/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://xai-foundation.gitbook.io/xai-network/about-xai/sentry-keys-explained.md).

# Sentry Keys Explained

The Sentry Node is an observation node that monitors the Xai rollup protocol and if an incorrect block is proposed, it raises an alarm (by whatever means its operator chooses) so that others can intervene. The purpose of Sentry nodes is to solve the [verifier’s dilemma](https://medium.com/offchainlabs/cheater-checking-how-attention-challenges-solve-the-verifiers-dilemma-681a92d9948e).

Sentry nodes can be run on community members’ laptops, desktops or even on cloud instances.  A Sentry Key or Keys are what enable network rewards for running a Sentry Node. A single Sentry Node instance can operate any number of Sentry Keys resulting in one instance generating rewards for unlimited keys. As long as the node is running, there is a probabilistic algorithm that determines if the node operator will receive a esXAI token reward from the network for their Sentry Keys.  That algorithm can be increased by staking esXAI.

Pool operators run Sentry Nodes for all Sentry Keys staked in their pools. This allows Sentry Key holders to earn rewards without having to operate a Sentry Node.


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