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TON Node Types

In simplified terms, a blockchain node is one of the computers that collectively run the blockchain's software. It enables the blockchain to search and optionally validate transactions and keep the network secure ensuring that the network remains decentralized.

When diving into the world of The Open Network (TON), understanding the distinct node types and their functionalities is crucial. This article breaks down each node type to provide clarity for developers wishing to engage with the TON blockchain.

Full Node​

A Full Node in TON is a node that maintains synchronization with the blockchain.

It retains the current state of the blockchain and can house either the entire block history or parts of it. This makes it the backbone of the TON blockchain, facilitating the network's decentralization and security.

Running a Full Node

Archive Node​

If Full node archives the entire block history it's called Archive Node.

Such nodes are indispensable for creating blockchain explorers or other tools that necessitate a full blockchain history.

Running an Archive Node

Validator Node​

TON operates on a Proof-of-Stake mechanism, where validators are pivotal in maintaining network functionality. Validators are rewarded in Toncoin for their contributions, incentivizing network participation and ensuring network security.

If full node holds a necessary amount of Toncoin as a stake, it can be used as Validator Node.

Running a Validator Node

Liteserver​

Full Node can be used as Liteserver. This node type can field and respond to requests from Lite Clients, allowing to seamlessly interact with the TON Blockchain.

Liteservers enable swift communication with Lite Clients, facilitating tasks like retrieving balance or submitting transactions without necessitating the full block history.

Actually, there are two public Liteservers configs both for mainnet and testnet, that already have been provided by the TON Foundation. They are accessible for universal use. But it's not recommended to use public Liteservers in production since they are not stable because of permanent high load.

These endpoints, such as those used by standard wallets, ensure that even without setting up a personal liteserver, interaction with the TON Blockchain remains possible.

If you want to have more stable connection, you can run your own Liteserver. To run a full node as a Liteserver, simply enable the Liteserver mode in your node's configuration file.

Enable Liteserver in your Node

Lite Clients: the SDKs to interact with TON​

Each SDK which supports ADNL protocol can be used as a Lite Client with config.json file (find how to download it here). The config.json file contains a list of endpoints that can be used to connect to the TON Blockchain.

Each SDK without ADNL support usually uses HTTP middleware to connect to the TON Blockchain. It's less secure and slower than ADNL, but it's easier to use.

Choose a TON SDK

Troubleshooting​

Below you can find approaches how to fix common nowed issues with light clients

Timed out after 3 seconds​

If you see this error this means that the liteserver you are trying to connect to is not available. The correct way to solve this issue for public liteservers is as follows:

  1. Download the config.json file from the tontech link:
wget https://api.tontech.io/ton/wallet-mainnet.autoconf.json -O /usr/bin/ton/global.config.json

It removes slow liteservers from the configuration file.

  1. Use the downloaded config.json file in your application with TON SDK.