docs_tfgrid4/docs/components/node.md

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title: 'Web4 Node - Compute'
sidebar_position: 3
---

## Empowering the New Internet with Web4 Nodes

The Internet as we know it has become centralized, fragile, and monopolized by a few powerful corporations. This model compromises privacy, limits innovation, and leaves us vulnerable to data breaches, censorship, and control. ThreeFold is building a new Internet, one that is decentralized, secure, and people-powered. By hosting a node, you become a vital part of this revolutionary shift.

## The Problem with the Current Internet

- **Centralization**: A handful of companies control most of the Internet’s infrastructure and data, leading to monopolistic practices.
- **Data Exploitation**: Your personal data is harvested, stored, and monetized without your control.
- **Fragility**: Centralized systems are prone to outages, censorship, and cyberattacks, risking global disruption.
- **Environmental Impact**: Traditional data centers consume vast amounts of energy, straining local power grids and contributing to resource depletion.

## What is ThreeFold?

ThreeFold is a decentralized Internet infrastructure built on independent, self-healing nodes hosted by individuals and organizations worldwide. This peer-to-peer network forms the foundation for a more secure, private, and sustainable Internet. ThreeFold enables applications, storage, and blockchain services to run without reliance on centralized servers, ensuring true digital sovereignty.

## Why Host a Node?

Hosting a node is your way to contribute to a better Internet while earning rewards. Here’s why it matters:

1. **Decentralization**:
   Each node helps distribute the Internet’s infrastructure, reducing dependence on centralized entities and ensuring global resilience.

2. **Privacy**:
   Data hosted on ThreeFold nodes remains private and encrypted, empowering individuals and businesses to take control of their information.

3. **Sustainability**:
   ThreeFold nodes are energy-efficient, reducing the environmental footprint compared to traditional data centers.

4. **Earn Rewards**:
   As a node host, you earn ThreeFold Tokens (TFT), a cryptocurrency used within the ThreeFold ecosystem.


## How to Host a Node

Getting started is simple. Choose the option that works for you:
1. **Buy a Plug-and-Play Node**:
   Get a ready-to-go device that you can set up at home or in your office.
2. **Use Existing Hardware**:
   Turn your current servers or devices into ThreeFold nodes by installing the software.
3. **Partner with ThreeFold**:
   Collaborate with the community to host nodes at scale and grow the network.

## Join the Movement

The Internet is a critical resource for humanity, and its future depends on us. By hosting a node, you become part of a global network dedicated to creating a fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable digital world. Join the movement and help power the new Internet with ThreeFold.

## Release Schedule

You can buy, build and host ThreeFold Nodes now.

The ThreeFold V4 nodes are available and you can buy them directly on our official partners' websites:

- [HostService](https://hostservice.nl/en/) (America)
- [Duck Farm Data](https://duckfarmdata.com/) (Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia)