Running a Node

By running a node, you can actively participate in the crypto revolution helping shape an alternative monetary system. Before you start with the process, you need to know the risks and requirements associated with running a Bitcoin node. Let’s dive into that-

1) Secure Your Wallet

When running a Bitcoin node, you can store your bitcoins in the Bitcoin core wallet, however; take safety measures as you would for running any other crypto wallet. 

2) Minimum Requirements for a Full Node

• Desktop or laptop with updated versions of the operating software

• 200 GB of free disk space, with a minimum read/write speed of 100 mb/s.

• 2 GB of random access memory 

• A fast internet connection with a minimum speed of 500 kb/second

• An unmetered connection or a connection with high upload limits, as well as one that does not have any upload limits. 

• A minimum of six hours a day for your node to run.

Note: Ensure your laptop or desktop is running at optimal condition since most of the operating systems allow your computers to enter a low-power mode as soon as the screensaver activates. This will halt or slow down the traffic. 

3) Problems You May Encounter

• Legal: Ensure your country hasn’t banned Bitcoin.

• Bandwidth Limit: Check the data bandwidth of your internet connection with your service provider. The goal is to keep the Bitcoin node running.

• Firewall Access: Like any blockchain, spammers try to malign the Bitcoin blockchain, too. But, rest assured that the Bitcoin network is safe and won’t affect your hardware. Some antivirus programs may make it difficult to run the Bitcoin node, so check antivirus software in your system before you begin with the process.

• Target Risks: Hackers or spammers who wish to undermine the Bitcoin network are on a constant lookout to attack a full bitcoin node. So, take extra precautions to ensure your hardware doesn’t get attacked. 

3) Options to Run the Bitcoin Node

There are three options to run a Bitcoin full node:

i) Run it on a virtual private network (VPN).

ii) Run it on an ‘out of the box’ solution, like Lighting In A Box, Raspiblitz, Nodl, Casa Node, etc.

iii) Run it on a customized solution, like Raspberry PI 4- a mini-computer that has the capacity to run full nodes on the Bitcoin network.

4) Now the Process to Run a Bitcoin Node on a Computer using VPN

Step 1: The first step is to keep your hardware ready to run the Bitcoin node.

Step 2: Choose the operating system you wish to use to run the Bitcoin node. Some options are Windows distributions (7,8, or 10), Linux distributions(Debian, Ubuntu, etc), and Mac OS. 

Step 3: Install Bitcoin on your hardware using these step-by-step instructions.

Step 4: Follow these steps to configure your router to allow port 8333:

a) Login to your router, and look for the port forwarding(Virtual Server) section. You’ll find it under the “NAT” section.

b) Input your IP address.. 

c) Type ‘8333’ on both Internal Port Start and External Port Start. 

d) Select TCP/UDP in the “Protocol” section.

e) Click Apply/Save

Step 5: Verify with websites like “earn.com” to ensure your Bitcoin node is reachable.