Which node maintains the history of state changes of all blocks?

Question: Which node maintains the history of state changes of all blocks?

In a blockchain network, a full node maintains the history of state changes of all blocks. This means that a full node stores a copy of the entire blockchain, including all of the blocks that have ever been mined. This allows full nodes to validate new blocks and to keep track of the current state of the blockchain.

Full nodes are essential for the security and decentralization of the blockchain network. By storing a copy of the entire blockchain, full nodes can help to prevent fraudulent transactions and to ensure that the blockchain is accurate and up-to-date.

Here are some examples of full nodes for different blockchains:

• Bitcoin: Bitcoin Core, Bitcoin XT, Bitcoin Unlimited
• Ethereum: Geth, Erigon, Besu
• Solana: Solana Core, Solana Labs Validator, Solana Mainnet Beta

Full nodes can be run by anyone, but they require a significant amount of storage space and bandwidth. As a result, full nodes are often run by businesses and organizations that have a strong interest in the security and integrity of the blockchain network.

In addition to full nodes, there are also light nodes and archive nodes. Light nodes do not store a copy of the entire blockchain, but they are still able to validate new blocks and to keep track of the current state of the blockchain. Archive nodes, on the other hand, store a copy of the entire blockchain, including all of the historical data. Archive nodes are often used by researchers and developers to analyze the blockchain and to learn more about how it works.

The type of node that you choose to run will depend on your needs and resources. If you are interested in helping to secure and decentralize the blockchain network, then you may want to consider running a full node. If you are on a limited budget or if you do not have the necessary resources to run a full node, then you may want to consider running a light node.