What Is a Bitcoin Node? How Nodes Validate and Relay
A bitcoin node is a computer running software that enforces protocol rules, validates transactions and blocks, and relays data across the network, helping secure decentralization and consensus.
How to Run a Bitcoin Node: Install Core and Sync
Install bitcoin Core, choose a data directory and open RPC/peer ports, download and validate the full blockchain, then allow the client to fully sync. Maintain uptime, enable pruning if low on disk, secure access.