Avalanche Node Peculiarities and Benefits
Polly Roberts
Avalanche is a layer-1 blockchain compatible with EVM. It has robust development capabilities, with its unique three-chain architecture and the ability to launch customized L1s using the network. Here, let’s focus on Avalanche nodes and explore how they work to help Web3 developers deploy their projects, and how services like GetBlock can simplify the process..
What is Avalanche node
Avalanche nodes play a crucial role in maintaining the network’s integrity, processing transactions, and enabling Web3 development. Before exploring how to run a node, it’s essential to understand Avalanche’s structure, consensus, and node types.
Avalanche chain structure
Avalanche operates three separate but interconnected chains, each optimized for a specific set of tasks:
X-chain: Built on the Avalanche Virtual Machine, it is used for creating and transferring digital assets, including the native AVAX token.
P-chain: Responsible for staking operations, validator coordination, and governance processes.
C-chain: Fully compatible with Ethereum via the Coreth Virtual Machine, it focuses on deploying and executing smart contracts.
This architecture separates core functionalities for greater scalability, performance, and customization potential.
Avalanche consensus
Avalanche utilizes a Delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS) consensus model that relies on validator and delegate participation to reach network consensus. One can see how the consensus works on the scheme below
Let’s explore both roles.
Validators:
Must stake a minimum of 2,000 AVAX (approximately $50,000).
Directly validate transactions and contribute to consensus.
Participate in governance decisions.
Earn staking rewards.
Delegates:
Can stake as little as 25 AVAX (about $625).
Vote for validators instead of validating directly.
Do not need to run their own node (but recommended).
Earn rewards alongside chosen validators (typically 8–10% APY).
This system allows flexible participation in securing the network, even with limited resources.
Avalanche node types
Avalanche nodes come in several types based on their functionalities, each serving different roles in the ecosystem. Let’s explore them.
Full Node:
Stores the full blockchain state and can be pruned to reduce disk size.
Synchronizes with other nodes to maintain network data.
Validator Node:
A full node with added consensus participation.
Validates transactions by staking AVAX and participates in governance.
RPC Node:
A full node that provides access to the Avalanche API.
Supports Web3 apps by executing blockchain queries and smart contract calls.
Generally, AVAX full node is the basic node type, which can then be customized into an RPC or validator node. Their use cases differ based on the task.
Web3 development:
Requires an RPC node with an active API endpoint.
Essential for dApps, NFTs, blockchain games, and DeFi protocols.
Transaction validation:
Performed by validator nodes with at least 2,000 staked AVAX.
Ensures secure execution and recording of transactions.
How to run Avalanche node
Running an Avalanche node requires both adequate hardware and a Unix-based software environment. Let’s go through the setup process.
Hardware requirements
To deploy a fully functioning AVAX node, your machine should meet these minimum specifications:
Disk: 1 TB SSD
RAM: 16 GB
CPU: 8-core processor or higher
Internet: Minimum 5 Mbps connection
Now, let’s focus on software.
Software requirements
AVAX nodes require specific software components and operating systems:
Operating system: Unix-based (Ubuntu recommended); Windows is not supported
Avalanche client: AvalancheGo
Dependencies: go (Golang) and gcc (GNU compilers)
Additional tools: Prometheus for monitoring, Grafana for data visualization, other tools are optional
After everything is set up, we’re ready to install.
Installation and maintenance
Setting up an Avalanche node involves several steps.
The process includes:
Download AvalancheGo from source, Docker, or use the pre-built binary.
Run AvalancheGo and wait for full node synchronization (bootstrapping).
Configure the node via flags, including C-, X-, and P-chain settings.
Optionally, enable pruning to save disk space.
Ongoing node maintenance includes software updates and performance monitoring using tools like Prometheus and Grafana. One can see the example of a performance monitoring dashboard below.
RPC and validator nodes
To configure an RPC node, you must expose the correct API endpoint and ensure stable uptime. This allows smart contract interactions and dApp development directly through your node, making it suitable for developers and Web3 projects.
Validator nodes, on the other hand, require staking 2,000 AVAX and adjusting the AvalancheGo configuration for consensus participation. These nodes secure the network and participate in block validation, making them vital for Avalanche’s DPoS model.
Benefits of running Avalanche node
Operating an Avalanche node brings various advantages to individual participants, developers, and enterprises.
Securing the network
Each full AVAX node helps maintain a decentralized and tamper-proof blockchain by validating state changes and rejecting unauthorized modifications. All full node operators play a key role in preserving the network’s security and resilience.
Faster transactions
Running your own node eliminates reliance on third-party providers, leading to faster, more reliable transaction execution. This independence can be critical for applications that require high throughput and low latency.
Validation and delegation
Becoming a validator allows users to stake AVAX, contribute to transaction validation, and participate in governance. Delegates, while staking less, still earn passive rewards between 8–10% APY by supporting trusted validators.
Web3 development
RPC nodes enable the creation of decentralized apps by providing a programmable API interface with the Avalanche blockchain. Developers can run custom smart contracts, interact with tokens, and deploy entire platforms using their own infrastructure.
Conclusion: Using a node provider
Running your own Avalanche node grants full control but requires hardware, setup time, and ongoing maintenance. For commercial Web3 projects, using a node provider like GetBlock can be more cost-effective and time-saving.
Here are the benefits of using a node provider:
Fast deployment — ready-to-use API access within minutes.
Lower cost — starts at $39/month (for GetBlock), no hardware needed.
No maintenance — node is managed by dedicated specialists.
Custom options — choose between shared or dedicated nodes.
Developer support — promotional help, partner benefits, and Dapp Hub access.
Choosing GetBlock lets startups and enterprises scale their Avalanche-based solutions quickly and securely, while focusing on what matters most: building their Web3 products.
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