Node

A node is a computer connected to a blockchain network that participates in the validation and propagation of data. Nodes maintain a copy of the ledger and communicate with other nodes to ensure the network remains synchronized.

There are different types of nodes, such as full nodes, which store the entire blockchain history, and light nodes, which only store block headers. By running a node, a user can verify transactions independently without trusting a third party.

The distribution and number of nodes are key indicators of a blockchain's decentralization and overall health.