Node

A node is an individual device or point of connection within a network. Nodes take the form of a computer, a server, a router, a switch, or any other device capable of sending, receiving, or forwarding data. Each node has a unique identifier – such as an IP address – and is responsible for processing and transmitting information across a network, enabling communication and facilitating the exchange of data between multiple devices.

In the context of crypto, a node is a participant in a decentralized network that maintains a copy of the blockchain and actively participates in the validation and verification of its history, including transactions, inscriptions, and smart contracts. Each node independently stores and updates the blockchain ledger, ensuring its security, integrity, and consensus across the network. Nodes communicate with each other to create new transactions and blocks, contributing to the overall security and resilience of a crypto network, and play a crucial role in the concept of decentralization.