Overview
Node Roles
Nodes in an Analog network can assume one of two roles:
- Time Nodes: Nodes that fulfill the roles of either Validators (i.e., participating in consensus and block creation) or Full Nodes (i.e., providing blockchain data storage and query services). For more details, refer to our Timepaper . Explore the links below to learn more about running nodes:
- Chronicle Nodes: Dual-service nodes that provide both attestation (monitoring and validating cross-chain requests via TSS before posting them to the Timechain) and relaying (forwarding Timechain requests to destination chains). For more details, refer to our Timepaper .
While Analog will initially manage the Chronicle Nodes to ensure network stability, the long-term plan, as detailed in the Decentralization Roadmap, is to shift to a decentralized Chronicle Node network.
Networks
There are two networks, each with its own purpose:
- Analog Timechain: This is the main network (mainnet) where the actual $ANLOG token is involved.
- Analog Testnet: Node operators can freely experiment and test their setups on Analog Testnet, which mirrors the Analog Timechain's protocol and mechanisms, using the TANLOG token available from the Faucet.
Steps You Need To Take To Operate a Node on Analog
We recommend Running a Validator on the Testnet first to get comfortable with the process and check your hardware and setup is perfect. After familiarizing yourself with the Testnet setup, try Running a Full Node on the Mainnet for a preview of the mainnet experience.
If you’re ready to Run a Validator on the Mainnet, you’ll need to:
- Set the session keys.
- Bond the minimum required amount of ANLOG tokens. Check out here for more details.
- Sync and monitor your node.
- Maintain your node to ensure the software is up-to-date and be compliant with the best security practices.
The following chapters outline the technical requirements and processes of operating a node as a Validator and Full Node on Testnet and Mainnet.