> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://launchnodes.gitbook.io/self-custody-for-solo-staking/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://launchnodes.gitbook.io/self-custody-for-solo-staking/custody-what-you-need-to-know.md).

# Custody - What you need to know

In order to solo stake Ethereum, you need to have a custody or self custody pattern that works for your business or institution or for yourself.

We have outlined a custody pattern that allows you to understand the five key things that you need to secure when solo staking which include:

1. Validator key Mnemonics (The most important)
2. Validator key passwords
3. Validator Keystore files
4. A .pem file that is generate when you set up your nodes
5. The withdrawal address wallet mnemonic (The second most important)

<figure><img src="https://819714932-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FIJjgpiG3IqF5CuMZzu4A%2Fuploads%2FnPHNf8QKBrHlkrjCfydS%2FCopy%20of%20Custody%20Patterns%20(Andrei).png?alt=media&amp;token=c3058d77-67ab-4ffa-9eb7-78ba22adbd02" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>