Key TakeawaysA Full Node refers to a participant in the Bitcoin network that downloads and verifies the entire blockchain.
Unlike lightweight nodes, which rely on third-party servers, full nodes autonomously enforce the consensus rules of the network.
By running a full node, users are contributing to the strength and resilience of the network. They ensure that all transactions are in compliance with the established rules of Bitcoin.
Full Nodes act as the backbone of the network, providing several key functions:
However, running a Full Node requires significant storage space as one needs to store the entire blockchain, which continues to grow over time.
Lightweight or SPV (Simplified Payment Verification) nodes only download a subset of the blockchain. They rely on Full Nodes for transaction validation, which means they don’t contribute as much to network security.
While lightweight nodes are more resource-efficient and faster to set up, they don’t offer the same level of privacy and security as full nodes.
The more full nodes present in the Bitcoin network, the harder it becomes for a malicious actor to spread incorrect information or attempt double spends. It ensures that the network remains decentralized and not controlled by a few entities.
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