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# Buy or Build Your Node

You have two main paths to becoming a ThreeFold farmer: buying a pre-configured node or building your own from hardware you already have or source yourself.

## Option 1: Buy a Pre-Built Node (Easiest)

### Why Buy Pre-Built?

✅ **Plug-and-play** - Arrives ready to farm  
✅ **Vendor support** - Help when you need it  
✅ **Optimized hardware** - Tested configurations  
✅ **Warranty** - Peace of mind  
✅ **Quick start** - Farming within hours

### Where to Buy

Several vendors offer certified ThreeFold nodes:

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**📦 Node Vendors**

Check the official ThreeFold channels for current list of certified node providers:
- [ThreeFold Shop](https://threefold.io) - Official vendor listings
- [Telegram Community](https://t.me/threefoldfarmers) - Vendor recommendations
- [Forum Marketplace](https://forum.threefold.io) - Community sales

</div>

### What to Look For

When buying a pre-built node, consider:

- **Capacity Size** - Storage, RAM, and CPU cores
- **Power Efficiency** - Lower electricity costs
- **Warranty & Support** - Vendor backing
- **Price vs. ROI** - Balance cost with earning potential
- **Shipping & Import Fees** - Total landed cost

### Typical Node Configurations

**Entry Level (~$500-1000)**
- 4-8 CPU cores
- 16GB RAM
- 500GB-1TB SSD
- Low power consumption (~50W)

**Mid Range (~$1000-2500)**
- 8-16 CPU cores
- 32-64GB RAM
- 1-2TB SSD
- Balanced performance (~100W)

**High Performance (~$2500+)**
- 16+ CPU cores
- 64-128GB+ RAM
- 2TB+ SSD (multi-drive)
- Maximum capacity (~150-200W)

## Option 2: Build Your Own Node

### Why Build Your Own?

✅ **Lower cost** - Use existing hardware  
✅ **Flexibility** - Choose your own specs  
✅ **Learning experience** - Understand the system  
✅ **Upgrade existing gear** - Repurpose hardware

### Hardware Requirements

**Minimum Configuration:**
```
CPU:     Any 64-bit processor (Intel/AMD)
         Multi-core recommended (4+ cores)
RAM:     8GB minimum (16GB+ recommended)
Storage: 500GB SSD minimum (1TB+ recommended)
         Additional HDDs for more capacity
Network: Gigabit Ethernet (wired connection)
Boot:    USB drive (16GB+) for Zero-OS
```

**Recommended Configuration:**
```
CPU:     Modern multi-core processor (8+ cores)
RAM:     32GB+ for better capacity utilization
Storage: 1TB+ NVMe SSD for high-performance
         Additional SSDs or HDDs for capacity
Network: Gigabit Ethernet (1Gbps+)
Power:   Efficient PSU (80+ certified)
```

### Compatible Hardware

**Processors:**
- Intel Core i5/i7/i9 (6th gen or newer)
- AMD Ryzen 5/7/9
- Intel Xeon
- AMD EPYC (for larger deployments)

**Storage:**
- Any SATA/NVMe SSD
- HDDs for additional capacity
- RAID controllers supported

**Network:**
- Standard Ethernet adapters
- Wired connection strongly recommended

### Where to Source Hardware

- **Repurpose** - Old servers or workstations
- **Consumer Market** - Build from PC components
- **Used Enterprise** - eBay, server resellers
- **Local Dealers** - Computer hardware stores

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### 💡 Pro Tip

Old enterprise servers (Dell PowerEdge, HP ProLiant) can make excellent farming nodes at low cost. Check eBay and local liquidators.

</div>

## Cost Considerations

### Initial Investment

| Item | Pre-Built | DIY |
|------|-----------|-----|
| Hardware | $500-3000+ | $200-2000+ |
| Setup Time | 1-2 hours | 2-8 hours |
| Technical Skill | Minimal | Moderate |
| Support | Vendor | Community |

### Operating Costs

**Monthly expenses to factor in:**

- ⚡ **Electricity** - Varies by location and node size
  - Small node (~50W): $5-15/month
  - Medium node (~100W): $10-30/month
  - Large node (~200W): $20-60/month

- 🌐 **Internet** - Usually existing connection
  - Recommend dedicated connection for serious farming
  - Business-grade for maximum uptime

- 🔧 **Maintenance** - Occasional hardware replacement
  - Budget for failed drives, power supplies
  - Usually minimal with quality hardware

## Making Your Decision

### Choose Pre-Built If:

- 👍 You want the easiest path
- 👍 You value vendor support
- 👍 You prefer plug-and-play
- 👍 Time is more valuable than cost savings

### Choose DIY If:

- 👍 You have existing hardware
- 👍 You enjoy technical projects
- 👍 You want to minimize costs
- 👍 You're comfortable with system building

## What's Next?

Once you have your hardware (or know what you'll buy), move on to:

**[Setup Your Node](/farming/setup)** - Configure and connect to the grid

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:::tip Need Help Deciding?

Ask the community! The [ThreeFold Telegram](https://t.me/threefoldfarmers) has experienced farmers who can help you choose the right option for your situation.
:::