Blockchain involves multiple computers connected in a global network, which allows for confirming new blocks and processing various transactions. Each computer is called a node.

What is a node

Nodes and their varieties

Each node can serve different purposes:

• light node — any personal computer participating in the blockchain network. It stores only a minimal part of the blockchain, sufficient to confirm certain information. To synchronize with the network, such a node connects to a full node to learn the current state of the network. Light nodes include, for example, multi-currency wallets that don't download the entire blockchain to the user's computer;
• full node — a device that constantly services the blockchain network, containing comprehensive data about blocks and other network parameters. Such a node maintains consensus among network participants and verifies new transactions. Full nodes have the right to vote on issues regarding the development of the current blockchain network;
• mining node — miners are also nodes that prove the work done to mine a new block. Such a user employs graphics accelerators or ASICs. The work of a mining node is paid through transaction fees from network participants;
• masternode — performs accounting and reconciliation of transactions, which is their sole purpose. Masternode owners receive certain income since their equipment services the blockchain network around the clock.