Buy A Bitcoin Node
The bitcoin network comprises two distinct groups; the miners who provide hash power to secure the network and add new blocks to the chain seem to get the most publicity. However, the second is the nodes; these individuals run copies of the bitcoin network protocol and the ledger and keep the network in consensus and check that everything is running smoothly.
To be part of the network, you need to run a full node. A bitcoin full node is a program that fully validates transactions and blocks.
You can run a full node on your computer or laptop, or you can set up a dedicated device to run as your full node. Those that run dedicated node devices may have a DIY setup as one can be built with a few spare parts, or you can purchase a prebuilt node as a plug and play option.
What do bitcoin full nodes do?
Almost all full nodes also help the network by accepting transactions and blocks from other full nodes, validating those transactions and blocks, and then relaying them to further full nodes.
Most full nodes also serve lightweight clients by allowing them to transmit their transactions to the network and notifying them when a transaction affects their wallets.
If not enough nodes perform this function, clients won’t be able to connect through the peer-to-peer network—they’ll have to use centralised services instead.
What are the benefits of running a full node?
While you can run a node on your computer, it’s preferable to have a designated device. This keeps your bitcoin software isolated from other software and has less chance of corruption on the device. Remember, you’re actively contributing to the decentralisation of the network and validating transactions based on consensus rules. The more software you run on a device, the more you leave it open to corruption.
Many people and organisations volunteer to run full nodes using spare computing and bandwidth resources—and more volunteers are added each month to allow Bitcoin to continue to grow.
If you want to participate in the bitcoin network and aid in the decentralisation of the network, and improve your bitcoin security, running a node is a must.
What is a pre-configured node?
The pre-built node is also referred to as the “node-in-a-box” option, is a plug and play system. The method consists of purchasing pre-built and pre-configured bitcoin full nodes that can be hooked onto your computer.
They usually come with an interface for you to manage the device and view data contained on it. In effect, this option outsources the grunt work of downloading and storing bitcoin’s blockchain to an external device that is mobile and consumes less power compared to your system.
All you would need to do is provide a place to plug it in and connect it to the internet either via WiFI but prefferbly using an Etherenet direct connection to the internet.
Where you can purchase a Bitcoin node
If you’re looking for a pre-built Bitcoin node, check out some of the following products. Depending on your location, you can order from them directly; in some cases, you may have a local retailer or subsidiary selling their product.
Note: We do not endorse any of these manufacturers, and while they do provide a convenient service, you are still trusting them to build a device with no malware or that they will issue a delivery of your device. If you are paying for a pre-built node, you might also want to pay in fiat so you can query and request a charge back which you will not have if paid in bitcoin.
| Manufacturer | Website |
|---|---|
| Bitbox Base | https://shiftcrypto.ch/base/ |
| Embassy | https://start9.com/ |
| Lightning In A Box | https://lightninginabox.co/ |
| My Node | https://mynodebtc.com/ |
| Nodl | https://www.nodl.it/ |
| RaspiBlitz | https://shop.fulmo.org/ |
| Ronindojo Tanto | https://shop.ronindojo.io/ |
| The Bitcoin Machines | https://thebitcoinmachines.com/ |
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