Part 10/12:
- Sync the blockchain fully.
Gradual expansion:
Move from just verifying transactions to hosting more advanced nodes like Lightning, once comfortable.
Consider security practices like hardware wallets and dedicated hardware.
Community Resources:
Trusted tutorials (e.g., Stephan Laverra’s “Ministry of Nodes”).
Developer audits and open source reviews.
Forums and communities for shared experiences.
Final Reflection: Your Role in Securing the Network
Bitcoin’s security model is built on participation—the more honest and independent nodes, the more resilient and censorship-resistant the network becomes. By running your own node, you affirm your commitment to sovereignty, verify your holdings on your own terms, and contribute to decentralization.