Want to become a full node - help needed

[DoomDumas]

Maybe this has to be move in the noob thread..

In love with bitcoin since GPU mining exist, I now wish to become a "full node that accept incoming connection" !

As I understand, this could help the network.

A) What is a full node exactly mean ?

B) How can I set it up ?

C) What this implies (ressources, security) ?


I only use the reference client, on few computer.  I never configure my network so I only get 8 connections (I guess via uPnP, wich I think is not very safe)

I mine a bit, 2Ghs+

I have an online wallet (less than 100 coin) and some other coin in an offline wallet.

Wish to became a full-node !

Thanks for your time !

[Revalin]

All Satoshi-client (bitcoin-qt or bitcoind) nodes are full nodes.  Even if you only connect out you're still maintaining and distributing the full blockchain and relaying transactions between the hosts you're connecting to.

If you want to accept incoming connections to provide some extra benefit to the network, configure your firewall to forward port 8333 to your PC.

[DoomDumas]

OMG, did'nt knew it is so simple.. So I'm a full node accepting incoming conection for at least 2 year   Good.. I'll configure to accept more than 8 connections

Thanks for answers

[DoomDumas]

Anyone have details about : C) What this implies (ressources, security) ?

[Revalin]

If you add the port-forward you'll use more bandwidth since you're relaying to more nodes.  It's not a big deal if you have any kind of broadband though.

There are some security implications.  It means that the whole world can see you're running a Bitcoin node, which might make you a target for other hacking attempts.  If a security hole is announced in the Bitcoin client it might mean that you could be hacked through Bitcoin itself.  So far this has never happened, but it's always a possibility.

[DoomDumas]

you both are fast and nice to answer to me..

Why a VPS would be better than my own Linux dedicated PC ?  (I've a nice unlimited broadband connection)

If my wallet is not on the PC that receive incoming connection, I've less risk !  is this true ?

[DoomDumas]

thanks, and nice vanity adress btw