A blockchain node is a computer in the network that keeps its software and transaction history, syncing with the network constantly. As each of them can instantly get information from the other node, it’s impossible to hack the blockchain without controlling a majority of its nodes, which is very hard to perform. This unique security feature is maintained by the blockchain’s full nodes, each of which keeps the full history of its transactions and synchronizes with others, so changing it is almost impossible.
Let’s see a quick guide on how to set a full node by yourself, starting with a quick overview of the node definition.
Nodes in blockchain
Nodes work as autonomous modules in a decentralized blockchain network. There are no central nodes, but they are different in their purposes.
For example, Ethereum nodes contain specific software called clients, and there are two primary types of them here: executive and consensus clients. The former works as the connector, performing transactions, executing Ethereum methods, and connecting with applications. The latter forms and maintains the Ethereum core, validating transactions, implementing the Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus, and ensuring that the blockchain is running as expected. Together, they ensure both stable blockchain functioning and its interaction with decentralized apps (dApps) and other chains.
Let's briefly look at how nodes work and see some examples.
How does a node work in blockchain?
A node works as a cloud server with blockchain software and a real-time copy of its transaction history. Two categories of nodes based on the size are light and full nodes.
- Light nodes store only the last blocks of transactions, so they are much less hardware-demanding. Still, they are also much less secure and rely on full nodes in their operations. So, they can be used only as an intermediary between the network and applications interacting with it.
- Full nodes store and update the entire blockchain history and therefore can verify transactions, sync with others and maintain the network integrity. They can also become validators themselves by participating in the consensus mechanism.
Therefore, full node modules create the network’s backbone, where each element supports all others while acting together as one. If one tries to change the full node, it syncs with others and restores the initial data, so the system remains protected. One can see the simplified scheme below that illustrates this mechanism. It also shows how full nodes form the network’s backbone, while light nodes are much smaller and can be used for easier blockchain interactions with other services.
In Ethereum, as mentioned, the PoS consensus clients validate transactions and maintain the network state using staking. For that, they need to lock some ETH in the blockchain and obtain rewards for their participation. Such reactions ensure that validators are motivated to maintain the network’s stability.
In Bitcoin, which uses the Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus mechanism, the situation is different: validators are called mining nodes and are required to solve cryptographic puzzles, generating the hash. For participation, they obtain rewards in BTC, but efficient Bitcoin mining currently requires very large computational capacities.
Want to know more about different node types and how they work? Check our node types guide!
While the consensus mechanisms in different blockchain technology stacks may be different, all of them require full nodes as their backbone. That signifies the importance of running a full node for advanced blockchain users.
What is the process of downloading the entire latest version of a blockchain to a node?
The blockchain download and installation are crucial when running a validator node. Still, a full node can also be used for a stable and secure connection to the blockchain. If one doesn’t want to run the node by oneself, regarding its extensive hardware and software requirements, one can order it using a node provider to save time and money.
After setting a new node manually, it should be properly maintained, as the blockchain is constantly updating and new blocks are uploading. Sometimes, major chain upgrades occur, which should also be overseen. Let’s now see what one should do to set a full node.
Step-by-step guide
Downloading and installing the full blockchain version requires several simple steps, but first, you need to ensure that your hardware is enough to run the full node, as it’s usually very hardware-demanding. For most of the full nodes, you need no less than 1 TB SSD, 16 GB of fast RAM, and a high-speed, stable Internet connection.
If you have all of that, follow the next general algorithm. It works in most cases, but consider that different blockchains have their own installation algorithm and always check with their documentation.
- Choose and install a full node client software for the blockchain you want to run.
(examples are Bitcoin Core for Bitcoin and Geth for Ethereum clients) - Check your hardware and whether it complies with official requirements.
- Configure the client software with appropriate settings for a full node.
- Start the client software and the blockchain data download and verification will begin.
- Wait for the initial sync process, that can take a while.
- Maintain enough disk space, as new blocks are constantly created and recorded.
- Keep the client software updated to stay compatible with network upgrades.
As mentioned, specific details may vary. However, this algorithm outlines the general process. Key aspects here are preparing the hardware, downloading the entire history of blocks, validating them, and staying in sync with the network. In order to become a validator, additional actions are required, usually implying the usage of specific software provided by the blockchain.
Running your own full node can be highly beneficial if you work with decentralized applications and have a large number of users who use the blockchain regularly with their requests. It can also be a good deal for enthusiasts who want to contribute to the network development and security or participate in it directly. And last, it’s an inevitable part for those who want to become validators and maintain the network’s consensus while earning on it.
GetBlock offers shared and dedicated nodes for more than 50 blockchains, and you can pay only for requests you’re doing—no more, no less. Scale your plan along with your dApps, and save your time and money, as you don’t need to set up the full node by yourself. Sign up and choose the plan that suits you best now!
