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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:
📦 Node Vendors
Check the official ThreeFold channels for current list of certified node providers:
- ThreeFold Shop - Official vendor listings
- Telegram Community - Vendor recommendations
- Forum Marketplace - Community sales
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
💡 Pro Tip
Old enterprise servers (Dell PowerEdge, HP ProLiant) can make excellent farming nodes at low cost. Check eBay and local liquidators.
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 - Configure and connect to the grid
:::tip Need Help Deciding?
Ask the community! The ThreeFold Telegram has experienced farmers who can help you choose the right option for your situation. :::