What is a node?

A node is simply any computer that runs a copy of the Bitcoin software and is used to verify transactions on the blockchain.

Nodes are spread across the world and talk to each other using the internet, sharing data to update Bitcoin’s distributed ledger. Nodes send and receive transactions from one another to verify their validity. They ensure there is no single point of failure on the network and are a cornerstone of how decentralised blockchains work. If one node fails, the network can continue to run.

There are a few different types of nodes. Full nodes are computers that contain a copy records of the entire Bitcoin blockchain, which can then be used as a reference point by Light nodes, which focus on processing transactions and do not store a copy of the Bitcoin blockchain.

Nodes are also involved in a number of other processes for cryptocurrency, including mining and staking.