What is a Node?
The short answer
A computer that keeps a copy of a blockchain's full transaction history and helps verify new transactions.
A blockchain network is made up of many independent nodes, each holding an identical copy of the ledger. More nodes, spread across more independent operators, generally means a more resilient and harder-to-tamper-with network.
Related terms
Full glossaryPeg
The target value a stablecoin is designed to maintain, typically $1 for dollar-pegged coins.
Layer 2
A network built on top of a layer 1 blockchain to make transactions faster and cheaper.
DEX (Decentralized Exchange)
A crypto exchange that runs on smart contracts rather than a company matching buyers and sellers.
Hardware Wallet
A small physical device that stores private keys completely offline.
Gas
The fee paid to have a transaction processed on a network like Ethereum.
Mining
The process, used by Bitcoin and similar networks, of using computing power to validate transactions and earn new…
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