A blockchain node is a computer or device that connects to a blockchain network, essentially acting as a participant in the network by storing a copy of the blockchain ledger and verifying transactions, thus playing a crucial role in maintaining the security and integrity of the decentralized system; it is one of the building blocks of a blockchain network, ensuring data consistency across all participating nodes.
About blockchain nodes
- Function:Each node independently verifies transactions and adds them to the blockchain, preventing manipulation of data.
- Distributed ledger:All nodes maintain a copy of the blockchain ledger, ensuring transparency and preventing any single point of failure.
- Types of nodes:Different types of nodes exist, including full nodes (storing the entire blockchain history), light nodes (storing only recent transaction headers), and miner nodes (participating in the process of creating new blocks).
A Polygon node is a computer that participates in the Polygon network. It processes transactions, validates blocks, and helps maintain the network’s security.
The Polygon network is divided into three layers:
- The Ethereum layer: This consists of a set of smart contracts deployed on the Ethereum mainnet.
- The Heimdall layer: This is the Proof of Stake (PoS) layer made up of Heimdall nodes that run in parallel with Ethereum.
- The Bor layer: Bor is responsible for block production.
Types of Polygon nodes
There are two main types of Polygon nodes:
- Full nodes: These store a copy of the blockchain and help validate transactions. They can be pruned (storing recent data only) or archived (storing all historical data).Criteria for selecting a full node:
- Goals: If your goal is to support the network by validating transactions without participating in block production.
- Resources: Pruned nodes are more suited for those with limited storage, while archive nodes are best if you need the complete blockchain history and can handle more storage demands.
- Risk/Rewards: Full nodes do not directly earn rewards like validator nodes. The risk is minimal as they do not engage in consensus but still play a critical role in network security.
- Validator nodes: These participate in consensus by proposing, validating, and producing new blocks. Running a validator node requires staking MATIC tokens and meeting specific requirements.