Minimum Hardware Configurations
Running nodes on the OKTC network requires specific hardware configurations to ensure optimal performance. Below are the minimum requirements for Validator Nodes, Full Nodes, and Archive Nodes:
| Specification | Validator Node | Full Node | Archive Node |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | 3.5 GHz, 16-Core | 3.0 GHz or up, 16-Core | 3.0 GHz or up, 16-Core |
| System | x86_64 | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| RAM | 64GB | 64GB | 64GB |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 5TB SSD (Expandable) |
| Bandwidth | 100Mbps | 100Mbps | 100Mbps |
| Cloud Suggestions | AWS m6i.4xlarge | AWS m6i.4xlarge | AWS r6i.4xlarge |
💡 Pro Tip: Storage needs will grow as the network expands. Always allocate more than the minimum requirements to maintain node reliability.
Why These Specs Matter
- CPU: Ensures efficient transaction validation and block processing.
- RAM: Supports in-memory operations for faster data access.
- SSD Storage: Critical for quick read/write operations in LevelDB.
- Bandwidth: Facilitates seamless peer-to-peer communication.
Best Practices for Running OKTC Nodes
Background
OKTC nodes utilize LevelDB for storing block and state data. Since LevelDB frequently reads from disk, high-performance storage is non-negotiable.
Common Pitfalls
- Cloud Disk Limitations: Standard cloud disks (e.g., Alibaba Cloud’s basic HDD) often cause synchronization delays due to slower I/O speeds.
Recommended Solutions
For cloud-based deployments, prioritize these disk types:
- Standard SSDs: Balanced performance for most node types.
- ESSDs (Enhanced SSDs): Higher IOPS for demanding workloads.
- Ultra Disks: Low-latency options for latency-sensitive applications.
👉 Compare cloud disk performance across AWS and Alibaba Cloud.
Key Takeaway: Always opt for SSD-backed storage, whether using Alibaba Cloud, AWS, or other providers.
FAQ Section
1. Can I run a Full Node with less than 64GB RAM?
While possible, it may lead to performance bottlenecks during peak loads. 64GB ensures smooth operation.
2. How often should I expand storage for an Archive Node?
Monitor growth rates—plan to expand every 6–12 months as blockchain data accumulates.
3. Is bandwidth throttling a concern for Validator Nodes?
Yes. Consistent 100Mbps bandwidth prevents missed blocks due to network lag.
4. What happens if my node falls behind in sync?
Switch to high-performance SSDs and restart the node to resume synchronization.
5. Are there cost-effective alternatives to AWS instances?
Consider preemptible VMs or spot instances, but ensure they meet minimum specs.
6. How do I verify my node’s disk performance?
Use tools like fio or cloud provider benchmarks to test IOPS and throughput.
Final Notes
- Regularly update node software to leverage performance optimizations.
- Monitor resource usage via tools like Grafana or Prometheus.
- Join OKTC’s developer communities to stay updated on hardware trends.
👉 Explore node deployment guides for step-by-step configurations.