Run a QSBitcoin Node

What is a Full Node?

A full node is a computer running the QSBitcoin core software that fully validates transactions and blocks against the network's consensus rules. Unlike lightweight wallets that rely on others for information, full nodes maintain their own complete (or near-complete) copy of the blockchain.

Why Run a Full Node?

• Support Decentralization: Each full node adds to the network's resilience and reduces reliance on any single entity.
• Enhance Security: By validating transactions independently, you help enforce the network's rules and don't need to trust third parties.
• Improve Privacy: When using a wallet connected to your own full node, your transaction queries don't go through external servers.
• Participate Directly: Running a node is a fundamental way to participate in and support the QSBitcoin network.
• Foundation for Other Services: A full node is often required for running services like mining software, block explorers, or payment processors.

Running a full node is generally considered a contribution to the network's health and does not typically offer direct financial rewards (unlike mining).

Requirements (General Estimates - Subject to Change)

Running a full node requires certain resources:

• Storage: Sufficient disk space to store the entire QSBitcoin blockchain. This size will grow over time. Check official documentation for current estimates (could be tens or hundreds of GBs). An SSD is recommended for better performance.
• Memory (RAM): Adequate RAM to run the node software efficiently. (e.g., 4GB+ might be a typical minimum, check official specs).
• CPU: A reasonably modern processor. Intensive processing is usually only required during the initial blockchain download/sync.
• Internet Connection: A stable, unmetered internet connection with sufficient bandwidth for downloading the blockchain and relaying transactions/blocks (upload bandwidth is also important). Nodes typically need to be online 24/7.
• Operating System: Usually supports common OS like Linux, macOS, and Windows. Check official documentation for supported versions.

How to Run a Node (General Steps)

1. Download Software: Obtain the official QSBitcoin core software for your operating system from the project's official source (e.g., GitHub releases page linked on Developer Resources). Verify signatures if provided.
2. Installation: Follow the installation instructions provided for your OS. This might involve extracting files, running an installer, or compiling from source.
3. Configuration (Optional): The software usually runs with default settings, but you might configure options like data directory location, network ports, or connection limits via a configuration file (e.g., `QSBitcoin.conf`) or command-line arguments.
4. Run the Node: Start the QSBitcoin core software (e.g., `qsbitcoind` for the daemon or a GUI application).
5. Initial Sync: The node will begin connecting to peers and downloading the entire blockchain history. This process can take a significant amount of time (hours or even days) depending on blockchain size, your hardware, and internet speed.
6. Allow Connections: Ensure your firewall and router allow incoming connections on the QSBitcoin network port (check documentation for the default port number, e.g., TCP 8333 for Bitcoin) if you want to fully support the network by providing blockchain data to other nodes.
7. Keep Running: For maximum benefit to the network, leave your node running as much as possible (ideally 24/7).

Resources & Support

• Official Documentation: Check the Developer Resources page or the code repository for specific setup guides and configuration options.
• Community Channels: Ask for help or discuss node operation in the official Community forums or chat channels.

Thank you for helping secure and decentralize the QSBitcoin network!