What are Blockchain Nodes?
In the simplest of terms, a blockchain node is a computer connected to a blockchain network. It is a widely used term even outside of the blockchain since the technical definition is “a point in a network at which lines intersect or branch,” commonly used in a wide variety of telecommunication networks.
It is a fundamental part of the blockchain since it acts as a decentralized digital ledger, without which no one could access any information, and data could not be stored, verified, or communicated to other nodes. A node can execute certain functions like creating, verifying, receiving, or sending information. What is essentially a device connected to the blockchain, the node is responsible for conveying every piece of information about blockchain transactions and other activity.
This article answers a very important question: what is a blockchain node, and what are its functions? Let’s discuss.
What is the Importance of Blockchain Nodes?
The rising popularity of blockchain technology over the last couple of years and its widespread adoption in a variety of industries such as healthcare, energy, entertainment, etc., is only going to continue with the advancement in technology. Therefore, it is important to understand the infrastructure behind blockchain technology to understand the dynamics and utilities that make it superior to its traditional counterparts.
Nodes are the backbone of a blockchain’s infrastructure. Their main purpose is to enhance the security of the data on the blockchain and prove credibility to the network. There can be thousands of nodes in a blockchain network that ensure its decentralization, immutability, and traceability.