Running a Kaspa node allows you to directly participate in the Kaspa network — verifying transactions, securing the blockchain, and contributing to decentralization. You can run a node on Windows, macOS, or Linux using the official Kaspa full-node software (kaspad). All you need is an internet connection, sufficient storage, and some basic command-line experience. Kaspa nodes sync in real time thanks to the BlockDAG architecture, and setup typically takes less than 30 minutes.
What Is a Kaspa Node?
A Kaspa node is software that connects to the Kaspa blockchain network and performs key functions:
-
🧠 Validates transactions and blocks.
-
🔄 Propagates data to other nodes.
-
🔒 Helps maintain network security and consensus.
-
💬 Allows you to interact with the blockchain without third parties.
By running a node, you’re helping keep Kaspa decentralized, censorship-resistant, and transparent — exactly as Proof-of-Work systems were meant to be.
Requirements to Run a Kaspa Node
Running a Kaspa node doesn’t require extreme hardware — but a stable setup is important for performance.
Minimum Requirements
| Component | Recommended |
|---|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 2.0 GHz or higher |
| RAM | 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended) |
| Storage | ~50 GB SSD (grows over time) |
| Internet | Stable broadband (unlimited or high data cap) |
| Operating System | Linux, macOS, or Windows 10+ |
Step-by-Step Guide: Running a Kaspa Node
Step 1: Download Kaspa Node Software
Go to the official Kaspa repository:
🔗 https://github.com/kaspanet/kaspad
You’ll find precompiled binaries for:
-
Windows
-
macOS
-
Linux
Alternatively, you can build from source if you prefer full control.
Step 2: Install or Extract the Files
Unzip or install the kaspad binary on your system.
On Linux/macOS, place it in a directory like /usr/local/bin/ for global access.
To verify the installation, open a terminal and run:
If you see version info — you’re ready to go. ✅
Step 3: Start the Node
Simply start the node with the following command:
By default, it will:
-
Connect to Kaspa’s mainnet.
-
Start downloading and verifying blocks.
-
Expose a JSON-RPC interface for local communication.
You can run it in the background using:
Step 4: Wait for Synchronization
Your node will begin syncing the entire blockchain.
This can take anywhere from 10 minutes to a few hours, depending on your internet speed and storage.
You can check sync progress with:
Once fully synced, your node is live and contributing to the Kaspa network.
Step 5: (Optional) Connect a Wallet or Miner
If you want to:
-
Run a wallet node, connect it with Kaspa Wallet CLI or GUI.
-
Mine directly, point your miner software (e.g. lolMiner, BzMiner) to your local node’s IP and port:
This setup ensures you’re mining directly on your own node — not relying on centralized pools.
Node Management Commands
Useful commands for interacting with your node:
| Command | Function |
|---|---|
kaspacli getinfo | Shows node status and sync progress |
kaspacli getblockcount | Displays current block height |
kaspacli getpeerinfo | Lists connected peers |
kaspacli getdaginfo | DAG statistics and block details |
kaspacli stop | Safely shuts down your node |
The
kaspaclitool is bundled withkaspadand lets you query node data easily.
Why Run Your Own Kaspa Node?
Running your own node gives you full independence:
-
✅ Verify your own transactions — don’t rely on third parties.
-
🌍 Support decentralization — every node strengthens the network.
-
⚡ Faster performance — direct access to blockchain data.
-
🛠️ Developer benefits — use the RPC API for building apps, explorers, or bots.
Advanced Options
You can customize your node with additional flags:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
--utxoindex |
Enables the UTXO index (for explorers & wallets) |
--rpclisten=:16110 |
Sets custom RPC listening port |
--testnet |
Runs the node on Kaspa testnet |
--profile |
Enables performance profiling |
--debuglevel=info |
Sets logging detail level |
Example:
Network Ports
Default Kaspa ports (make sure they’re open):
-
16110 → RPC (for wallet/miner connection)
-
16111 → Peer-to-peer (node communication)
If running on a server, configure your firewall to allow these ports.
Monitor Your Node
You can monitor performance with:
-
Kaspa Stats Dashboard: https://stats.kaspa.org
-
Grafana integration: For real-time metrics.
-
Kaspa Explorer: To verify block sync.
Future Use Cases
Running a Kaspa node prepares you for upcoming innovations:
-
Kaspa Virtual Machine (KVM) → Smart contracts & DeFi support.
-
Cross-chain infrastructure → Secure bridges to other ecosystems.
-
Layer-2 apps → Instant microtransactions anchored to your node.
Your node could become a building block for the next generation of decentralized networks.
Key Takeaway
Running a Kaspa node is easy, fast, and meaningful.
It strengthens the network, increases your privacy, and gives you full control over your blockchain interactions.
-
🖥️ Install
kaspad -
🔗 Sync with the network
-
⚡ Verify, mine, or build directly
Kaspa’s lightweight design and 1-second blocks make node operation accessible for everyone — from hobbyists to developers.
In short:
Running a Kaspa node lets you be part of the most decentralized, fast, and fair Proof-of-Work network in the world — all in under 30 minutes. ⚡
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice.