Blockchain Node
Blockchain Node
A Blockchain node is any computer that participates in the Blockchain network. It maintains a copy of the entire Blockchain ledger, processes transactions, and helps validate and propagate new blocks across the network. Nodes can be categorized into full nodes and light nodes.
Examples:
- Full Node: A Bitcoin full node stores the entire Blockchain and enforces the rules of the Bitcoin protocol. It verifies all transactions and blocks.
- Light Node: A light node, or SPV (Simplified Payment Verification) node, only downloads the block headers and relies on full nodes for transaction verification, making it less resource-intensive.
Use Cases:
- Mining: Mining nodes validate transactions and create new blocks by solving complex mathematical problems.
- Wallet Services: Wallet nodes help users manage their Cryptocurrency balances without requiring a full Blockchain download.