Miner

A node operator in a Proof-of-Work blockchain network who competes to solve cryptographic puzzles by finding a specific value (nonce) that, when combined with the block’s data through a hash function, produces a hash value meeting network-specified criteria. Miners verify transactions, create new blocks, and receive newly minted tokens as rewards for their computational work. The energy cost for mining acts as both an incentive system and security mechanism against malicious behavior.