Running a Node

Running your own node gives you the highest level of sovereignty and helps decentralize the network.

What is a Node?

A node is software that:

- Downloads and verifies the entire blockchain

- Validates all transactions independently

- Broadcasts transactions to the network

Why Run a Node?

Privacy: Don't rely on third-party services

Verification: Don't trust, verify everything yourself

Decentralization: More nodes = stronger network

Learning: Deep understanding of how blockchain works

Node Types

Full Node: Stores entire blockchain history

Light Node: Only stores headers, queries full nodes

Archive Node: Full node + all historical states

Validator Node: Full node that participates in consensus

Requirements (Ethereum Example)

Hardware:

- 16GB+ RAM

- 2TB+ SSD (NVMe preferred)

- 4+ core CPU

- Stable internet connection

Software:

- Execution client (Geth, Nethermind)

- Consensus client (Prysm, Lighthouse)

Getting Started

Easy options:

- DAppNode (plug-and-play hardware)

- Avado (pre-configured devices)

- Raspberry Pi setups (cheapest)

DIY:

- Follow ethereum.org/run-a-node

- Use ethstaker community for support

Important Notes

- Initial sync takes days

- Needs to run 24/7 for staking

- Requires ongoing maintenance

- Start with testnet first!