Node
A computer running the blockchain's software — every node keeps its own copy of the ledger and re-verifies the rules.
A node is any computer that runs a blockchain’s client software. Full nodes store the whole ledger and independently verify every transaction and block against the protocol’s rules. The more independent nodes, the harder it is to rewrite or censor history.
Balanced vs full nodes
Not all “nodes” are equal. Miners or validators propose blocks; full nodes verify them; light clients only check proofs. Counting raw node numbers is misleading until you filter by who actually verifies versus who just follows.
Why node count is a W3D metric
If a single cloud provider runs most nodes, the “decentralized” ledger can be switched off with one billing decision. Geographic spread, client diversity, and hosting independence all feed the infrastructure pillar of every audit.
Related terms
Decentralization, Blockchain, Consensus Mechanism, Mining, Client