In the world of cryptocurrency, running a full node is a way of contributing to the network’s security and decentralization. A full node is a computer that validates transactions and blocks and relays them to other nodes. Running a full node requires a lot of bandwidth, storage, and computing power, as well as a stable and uncensored internet connection.
However, not everyone has the privilege of accessing these resources, especially in countries with strict internet regulations and censorship. One such country is China, where the government has been cracking down on cryptocurrency activities and imposing bans on exchanges, mining, and trading platforms. Despite these challenges, there are still some brave and dedicated individuals who are running full nodes from inside mainland China, risking their freedom and safety for the sake of the network.
One of these individuals is an anonymous legend who goes by the pseudonym “Node Runner”. Node Runner has been running a full node since 2017, using various methods to evade detection and censorship. He has shared his story and insights with us in this exclusive interview.
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Running a full node from inside mainland China is a risky but rewarding endeavor. However, running a full node from inside mainland China also exposes you to some challenges and dangers. The Chinese government has a strict control over the internet and has been cracking down on cryptocurrency activities in recent years. Some of the risks that you may face include:
Censorship: The Great Firewall of China may block or interfere with your connection to the blockchain network, preventing you from receiving or sending transactions, or verifying the validity of the blocks. You may need to use a VPN or a Tor network to bypass the censorship, but this may also attract unwanted attention from the authorities.
Surveillance: The Chinese government may monitor your internet traffic and try to identify your IP address, location, and identity. They may also try to access your device and steal your private keys, funds, or personal information. You may need to encrypt your data and use a firewall or antivirus software to protect yourself from hackers and malware.
Legal consequences: The Chinese government may consider running a full node as an illegal activity, especially if you are involved in any transactions that violate their regulations or sanctions. You may face fines, confiscation of your assets, arrest, or even imprisonment. You may need to consult a lawyer and be aware of your rights and obligations before running a full node.
Running a full node from inside mainland China is not for the faint of heart. It requires technical skills, financial resources, and moral courage. However, if you are willing to take the risk, you may also reap the rewards of being part of a global community that is building a more open, fair, and innovative future.
Q: How did you get interested in cryptocurrency and running a full node?
A: I first learned about Bitcoin in 2013, when I was studying computer science at university. I was fascinated by the concept of a decentralized and peer-to-peer digital currency that was not controlled by any central authority. I started to research more about it and learned about the technical aspects of how it works. I also discovered that there were other cryptocurrencies based on different algorithms and protocols, such as Ethereum, Litecoin, Monero, and so on.
I decided to run a full node because I wanted to support the network and help it grow. I also wanted to learn more about how the network operates and how to interact with it directly. Running a full node gives me a sense of empowerment and independence, as I can verify transactions and blocks by myself, without relying on third-party services or intermediaries.
Q: What are the challenges of running a full node from inside mainland China?
A: The main challenge is the internet censorship and surveillance that is imposed by the Chinese government. The Great Firewall of China blocks many websites and services that are related to cryptocurrency, such as exchanges, wallets, explorers, forums, etc. It also monitors and filters internet traffic and can detect and block connections to cryptocurrency nodes.
To overcome this challenge, I have to use various tools and techniques to bypass the firewall and hide my identity and location. For example, I use VPNs (virtual private networks), Tor (The Onion Router), proxies, bridges, obfuscation protocols, etc. These tools allow me to encrypt my traffic and route it through different servers or nodes around the world, making it harder for the firewall to detect and block it.
Another challenge is the cost and availability of hardware and internet resources. Running a full node requires a lot of disk space, memory, CPU power, and bandwidth. These are not cheap or easy to obtain in China, especially for an average person like me. I have to use old laptops or desktops that I can find or buy second-hand and upgrade them with external hard drives or SSDs. I also have to pay for high-speed internet plans that offer unlimited data usage and good upload speed.
Q: How do you manage the risk of being discovered or arrested by the authorities?
A: I try to be as careful and discreet as possible. I do not tell anyone that I am running a full node or that I am involved in cryptocurrency. I do not use my real name or personal information online. I do not store any cryptocurrency on my devices or online wallets. I only use anonymous or privacy-oriented cryptocurrencies that offer features such as encryption, stealth addresses, ring signatures, zero-knowledge proofs, etc.
I also change my IP address frequently and use different VPNs or Tor circuits every time I connect to the network. I do not run my full node continuously or at regular intervals. I only run it when I think it is safe or necessary. I also monitor the network status and activity regularly, using tools such as Bitnodes or Node Explorer.
I know that there is always a risk of being caught or exposed by the authorities, but I am willing to take that risk for the sake of the network and the community. I believe that running a full node is a form of resistance and activism against the oppressive regime that tries to control everything in China.