This comprehensive guide explores blockchain nodes as the fundamental infrastructure enabling decentralized networks to function securely and transparently. The article explains what nodes are—computers maintaining complete or partial blockchain records—and details their critical roles in transaction verification, consensus achievement, and network security. It categorizes nodes into Full Nodes (storing complete blockchain history) and Light Nodes (using minimal resources), further subdividing into specialized types like Mining Nodes, Staking Nodes, and Lightning Nodes. The guide demonstrates why running your own node enhances security, independence, and governance participation while supporting network decentralization. Additionally, it covers practical setup requirements, introduces node service providers like Gate's solutions, and addresses common questions about costs, rewards, and security implications, making blockchain infrastructure accessible to both developers and individual participants.