ICN Link
Last updated
Last updated
ICN Links are integral to the Impossible Cloud Network (ICN). They can be staked to HyperNodes whose role is to monitor Hardware Providers (HPs) and verify that these providers meet the network’s performance standards.
Why ICN Link matters • A HyperNode can only operate when at least one ICN Link (ICNL) is delegated to it. • Delegating ("staking") an ICN Link starts the ICNT reward schedule that is attached to that Link. • The Link holder keeps full control and can re‑delegate to another HyperNode at any time.
This means HyperNodes supply the monitoring work, but the ICN Link is the asset that secures it, earns and routes the rewards.
This flowchart illustrates the role of HyperNodes within the Impossible Cloud Network (ICN). HyperNodes monitor Hardware Providers (HPs) and submit reports on performance. Although they perform the monitoring, any ICNT rewards go to the ICNL stakers who delegate their stake to these HyperNodes. Any further distribution of rewards is outside the scope of the core ICN mechanics.
HyperNodes continuously measure HP uptime, latency, and other key performance indicators to confirm compliance with network standards.
If an HP falls below threshold, the HyperNode submits a report. These reports decide whether HPs keep their incentives or face penalties and help maintain accountability across the network.
Persistent failure to report — or inaccurate reporting — triggers penalties for the HyperNode itself
Each ICN Link carries a time-to-live (TTL) curve. This TTL curve is a 48‑month ICNT distribution schedule and will begin when the ICN Protocol goes live. When rewards are active and you stake an ICN Link to a HyperNode, you will earn rewards from the TTL. As long as you are staked you will be actively earning on the curve. If you are not staked, any periods of the TTL that were missed are forever lost.
The table below shows how the total reward is released over time. Percentages are relative to the Link’s full payout.
Months
% of Total
Months
% of Total
1
18.40 %
25
1.70 %
2–3
3.40 % each
26–28
1.49 % each
4–6
3.19 % each
29–31
1.28 % each
7–9
2.98 % each
32–34
1.06 % each
10–12
2.76 % each
35–36
0.85 % each
13–15
2.55 % each
37–42
0.64 % each
16–18
2.34 % each
43–48
0.43 % each
19–21
2.13 % each
22–24
1.91 % each
Performance modifier – If the delegated HyperNode misses its monitoring obligations, the current month’s ICNT for that Link is reduced, and repeated issues can shorten the Link’s remaining term.
Missed / inaccurate SIA Reports → reduced ICNT for the affected month.
Ongoing non‑compliance → the validity period of delegated Links can be shortened (e.g., –3 months).
Restoration – Once issues are resolved, the Link resumes earning its scheduled monthly amounts.
The result is a balanced system: ICN Link holders earn rewards while choosing reliable operators, and HyperNodes are incentivised to maintain high performance.
Delegated Staking with Hardware Providers – ICN Links can also be used as collateral for HPs. Details are in the .
