Things to know about full node
Here are some things to keep in mind when using your full node.
Data usage
Syncing a full node for the first time requires downloading the entire history of the bitcoin
blockchain. Once the node is synced, it may upload and download dozens of gigabytes each month.
Due to this high data usage, it is strongly recommended you run your node over Wi-Fi only, or make
sure you have an unlimited, unthrottled mobile data connection.
Storage requirements
Running a full node requires more than 280 GB of storage space on a large microSD card. The card
will also need to accommodate future growth of the blockchain, which can be as high as 4 GB per
month.
Power requirements
Full nodes do not require much processing power, but they send and receive lots of data which may
drain your battery more quickly. You can pause your node when running on battery to help extend
your battery life.
About bitcoin full nodes
A full node is responsible for validating transactions as part of the bitcoin network, as well as for
relaying requests. It stores the full bitcoin blockchain, validates the details of hashes and
transactions, and shares this information with the rest of the network.
Why would I want a full node?
There are several reasons you might want to run a full node.
Contribute to the security of the bitcoin network
Part of the security of bitcoin comes from the distributed ledger: shared copies of bitcoin
transaction history make it much harder for any one user to change transaction histories and
balances. Having many independent nodes constantly validating the entire history of the
blockchain makes it very difficult to hijack.
Help maintain the independence of bitcoin
Independently operated nodes help offset the influence large entities—like mining pools or
financial institutions—which could make changes to the bitcoin infrastructure without user input.
Maintaining your own node gives you a voice and a way to contribute to the future of the bitcoin
network.
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