Node

A node in blockchain technology is a computer or device that participates in the operation and maintenance of a blockchain network by validating transactions, maintaining a copy of the blockchain ledger, and propagating transaction data across the network. Nodes can vary in their roles: full nodes store the entire blockchain and ensure security and integrity, light nodes download only block headers for efficiency, mining nodes contribute computational power to add new blocks through cryptographic puzzles, and masternodes, found in specific networks, provide additional services like facilitating instant transactions and enhancing privacy. Nodes communicate with each other to share information, maintaining the blockchain's decentralized, secure, and up-to-date nature.