SNARK Workers

While most protocols have one primary group of node operators (miners, validators, or block producers), Mina has a second group — SNARK workers. These nodes produce zk-SNARK proofs of transactions, which keep the Mina blockchain at a constant size instead of growing over time.

A SNARK coordinator can distribute work across a pool of SNARK workers.

Deep knowledge of zk-SNARKs is not required to run a SNARK worker, but for background see the What are zk-SNARKs? primer.

Next steps

• Getting Started — Run a SNARK worker or coordinator
• Docker Compose Example — Run a coordinator and worker with Docker Compose
• FAQ: SNARKs and SNARK Workers — Common questions about SNARK pricing, fees, and performance