EigenLayer is set to introduce “slashing” for restakers starting April 17, marking the protocol’s “first feature-complete iteration,” according to an announcement made on April 2. 

The introduction of slashing will be the final step in EigenLayer's quest to create the protocol as "infrastructure for a new generation of verifiable apps and services built on the Verifiable Cloud," according to a post on X.

Since 2024, EigenLayer has been distributing rewards, including its native EIGEN tokens, to encourage restaking. However, slashing has only been implemented on EigenLayer’s testnets until now. 

With slashing going live, node operators and restakers will have the option to “opt-in” voluntarily, allowing for a gradual transition for users, as said in a blog post by EigenLayer.

The move to add slashing, provides a security measure that has been missing from the main net. Until now, the slashing functionality had been confined to EigenLayer's testnets. With this update, node operators and restakers will be able to actively "opt-in," allowing for a more gradual transition for users.

EigenLayer's core function involves securing third-party protocols, known as actively validated services (AVSs), by utilizing a pool of restaked cryptocurrencies as collateral.

The process of restaking involves leveraging tokens that have already been staked to secure additional protocols concurrently. The implementation of slashing is intended to create a more robust and secure environment for the growing EigenLayer ecosystem.