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Run a node

Take full control.
Run your own node.

Become fully sovereign while helping secure the network. Become Ethereum.

What does it mean to "run a node"?

Run software.

Known as a 'client', this software downloads a copy of the Ethereum blockchain and verifies the validity of every block, then keeps it up-to-date with new blocks and transactions, and helps others download and update their own copies.

With hardware.

Ethereum is designed to run a node on average consumer-grade computers. You can use any personal computer, but most users opt to run their node on dedicated hardware to eliminate the performance impact on their machine and minimize node downtime.

While online.

Running an Ethereum node may sound complicated at first, but it's merely the act of continuously running client software on a computer while connected to the internet. While offline, your node will simply be inactive until it gets back online and catches up with the latest changes.

Who should run a node?

Everyone! Nodes are not just for miners and validators. Anyone can run a node—you don't even need ETH.

You don't need to stake ETH or be a miner to run a node. In fact, it's every other node on Ethereum that holds miners and validators accountable.

You may not get the financial rewards that validators and miners earn, but there are many other benefits of running a node for any Ethereum user to consider, including privacy, security, reduced reliance on third-party servers, censorship resistance and improved health and decentralization of the network.

Having your own node means you don't need to trust information about the state of the network provided by a third party.

Don't trust. Verify.

Why run a node?

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Privacy & Security

Stop leaking your personal information to third party nodes.

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When sending transactions using public nodes, personal information can be leaked to these third-party services such as your IP address and which Ethereum addresses you own.

By pointing compatible wallets to your own node you can use your wallet to privately and securely interact with the blockchain.

Also, if a malicious node distributes an invalid transaction, your node will simply disregard it. Every transaction is verified locally on your own machine, so you don't need to trust anyone.

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Censorship Resistance

Ensure access when you need it, and don't be censored.

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A 3rd-party node could choose to refuse transactions from specific IP addresses, or transactions that involve specific accounts, potentially blocking you from using the network when you need it.

Having your own node to submit transactions to guarantees that you can broadcast your transaction to the rest of the peer-to-peer network at any time.

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Participate

The decentralization revolution starts with you.

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By running a node you become part of a global movement to decentralize control and power over a world of information.

If you're a holder, bring value to your ETH by supporting the health and decentralization of the network, and ensure you have a say in its future.

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Decentralization

Resist strengthening centralized points of failure.

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Centralized cloud servers can provide a lot of computing power, but they provide a target for nation-states or attackers looking to disrupt the network.

Network resilience is achieved with more nodes, in geographically diverse locations, operated by more people of diverse backgrounds. As more people run their own node, reliance on centralized points of failure diminishes, making the network stronger.

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Voice your choice

Don't give up control in the event of a fork.

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In the event of a chain fork, where two chains emerge with two different sets of rules, running your own node guarantees your ability to choose which set of rules you support. It's up to you to upgrade to new rules and support proposed changes, or not.

If you're staking ETH, running your own node allows you to chose your own client, to minimize your risk of slashing and to react to fluctuating demands of the network over time. Staking with a third party forfeits your vote on which client you think is the best choice.

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Sovereignty

Think of running a node like the next step beyond getting your own Ethereum wallet.

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An Ethereum wallet allows you to take full custody and control of your digital assets by holding the private keys to your addresses, but those keys don't tell you the current state of the blockchain, such as your wallet balance.

By default, Ethereum wallets typically reach out to a 3rd-party node, such as Infura or Alchemy, when looking up your balances. Running your own node allows you to have your own copy of the Ethereum blockchain.

Getting started

In the earlier days of the network, users needed to have the ability to interface with the command-line in order to operate an Ethereum node.

⚠️If this is your preference, and you've got the skills, feel free to check out our technical docs.

Spin up an Ethereum node
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Now we have DAppNode, which is free and open-source software that gives users an app-like experience while managing their node.

DAppNode glyph

In just a few taps you can have your node up and running.

DAppNode makes it easy for users to run full nodes, as well as dapps and other P2P networks, with no need to touch the command-line. This makes it easier for everyone to participate and create a more decentralized network.

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Choose your adventure

You'll need some hardware to get started. Although running node software is possible on a personal computer, having a dedicated machine can greatly enhance the performance of your node while minimizing its impact on your primary computer.

When selecting hardware, consider that the chain is continually growing, and maintenance will inevitably be needed. Increasing specs can help delay the need for node maintenance.

🛒Buy fully loaded

Order a plug and play option from vendors for the simplest onboarding experience.

  • No building needed.
  • App-like setup with a GUI.
  • No command-line required.
Shop DAppNodeShop Avado

🏗️Build your own

A cheaper and more customizable option for slightly more technical users.

  • Source your own parts.
  • Install DAppNode.
  • Or, choose your own OS and clients.

Build your own

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Step 1 – Hardware

Minimum specs

  • 4 - 8 GB RAM

  • 2 TB SSD

    SSD necessary for required write speeds.

Recommended

  • Intel NUC, 7th gen or higher

    x86 processor

  • Wired internet connection

    Not required, but provides easier setup and most consistent connection

  • Display screen and keyboard

    Unless you're using DAppNode, or ssh/headless setup

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Step 2 – Software

Option 1 – DAppNode

When you're ready with your hardware, the DAppNode operating system can be downloaded using any computer and installed onto a fresh SSD via a USB drive.

DAppNode Setup

Option 2 – Command line

For maximum control, experienced users may prefer using the command line instead.

See our developer docs for more information on getting started with client selection.

Command line setup

Find some helpers

Online platforms such as Discord or Reddit are home to a large number of community builders willing to help you with any questions you may encounter.

Don't go at it alone. If you have a question it's likely someone here can help you find an answer.

Join the DAppNode DiscordFind online communities

Further reading

Stake your ETH

Though not required, with a node up and running you're one step closer to staking your ETH to earn rewards and help contribute to a different component of Ethereum security.

Stake ETH

🥩Plan on staking?

To maximize the efficiency of your validator, a minimum of 16 GB RAM is recommended, but 32 GB is better, with a CPU benchmark score of 6667+ on cpubenchmark.net. It is also recommended that stakers have access to unlimited high-speed internet bandwidth, though this is not an absolute requirement.

EthStaker goes into more detail in this hour long special - How to shop for Ethereum validator hardware

🥧A note on Raspberry Pi (ARM processor)

Raspberry Pis are lightweight and affordable computers, but they have limitations that may impact the performance of your node. Though not currently recommended for staking, these can be an excellent and inexpensive option for running a node for personal use, with as little as 4 - 8 GB of RAM.

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