21Relay
Run Your Node

Stage 2 of 7

Check your hardware readiness

A reliable SSD, stable internet and safe power matter more than buying a fashionable device.

  1. 1Choose setup
  2. Check hardware
  3. 3Install
  4. 4Synchronise
  5. 5Maintain
  6. 6Improve privacy
  7. 7Troubleshoot

Three practical tiers

1. Existing computer

Lowest-cost learning option. A modern 64-bit CPU, 8 GB RAM and an SSD are comfortable starting points. The node is offline whenever the computer is off.

2. Dedicated DIY node

A small x86-64 computer with 8 GB or more RAM, a quality SSD, Ethernet and reliable cooling is well suited to continuous operation.

3. Pre-built node appliance

The simplest appliance experience, with integrated hardware and support. Compare support, repairability and storage without treating any product as an investment recommendation.

Storage and network

Archival node

Keeps historical block and undo files. Choose an SSD with substantial free headroom beyond the current blockchain size because the chain continues growing.

Pruned node

Fully validates from genesis but deletes eligible old block files. Bitcoin Core supports a configurable pruning target; allow extra space for chainstate, indexes, wallets, logs and updates.

Internet and Ethernet

Initial sync transfers significant data. An uncapped stable connection is preferable. Ethernet is usually more reliable than Wi-Fi for a dedicated node.

Power

Use a reliable power supply and normal software shutdown. A UPS is optional but valuable where outages are common.

Which setup is right for me?

Learning and occasional use

Existing computer + Bitcoin Core, optionally pruned.

Always-on verification

Dedicated x86-64 mini PC + SSD + Ethernet.

Lowest setup effort

A supported pre-built appliance, accepting higher purchase cost.

Readiness checklist

  • 64-bit supported computer
  • At least 8 GB RAM recommended for a comfortable setup
  • SSD selected with appropriate archival or pruned capacity
  • Stable internet without restrictive data limits
  • Ethernet available for dedicated hardware
  • Reliable power and cooling
  • Backup plan for any wallet keys or configuration

Official sources

Bitcoin Core download and platform supportUmbrel x86 requirements

Stage progress

Mark this stage complete when you are ready to continue.