> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://totochain.gitbook.io/totochain/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://totochain.gitbook.io/totochain/validators/running-a-node.md).

# Running a Node

Setting up a validator node for Peerplays 2.0 involves several key steps to ensure your node is correctly installed, configured, and connected to the network. Here's a straightforward guide to help you through the process:​

## **1. System Requirements**

Ensure your system meets the following minimum requirements:

* **Operating System**: Ubuntu 20.04 LTS​
* **CPU**: Quad-core processor (2.5 GHz or faster)​
* **RAM**: 16 GB​
* **Storage**: 500 GB SSD​
* **Network**: High-speed broadband with low latency​

## **2. Install Dependencies**

Update your system and install necessary dependencies:

```bash
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt install -y build-essential cmake git clang libclang-dev pkg-config libssl-dev
```

## **3. Install Rust**

Peerplays 2.0 is built using Rust, so you'll need to install it:​

```bash
curl --proto '=https' --tlsv1.2 -sSf https://sh.rustup.rs | sh
source $HOME/.cargo/env
```

## **4. Clone the Repository**

Obtain the Peerplays 2.0 source code from the official GitLab repository:​

```bash
git clone https://gitlab.com/PBSA/Peerplays_2.0/discovery.git
cd discovery
```

## **5. Build the Node**

Compile the Peerplays 2.0 node:​

```bash
cargo build --release
```

## **6. Configure the Node**

Create a directory for your node's configuration:​

```bash
mkdir -p ~/.peerplays
cp target/release/peerplays-node ~/.peerplays/
```

You'll need to create and configure a `config.toml` file in the `~/.peerplays` directory. This file should include your node's details, such as:​

* **Network settings**: Specify the IP address and port for peer-to-peer communication.​
* **Validator keys**: Input your validator's keys for block signing.​

Ensure your validator keys are securely stored and correctly referenced in the configuration.​

## **7. Start the Node**

Navigate to the directory containing the node binary and launch your validator node:​

```bash
cd ~/.peerplays
./peerplays-node --validator
```

## **8. Monitor and Maintain**

Regularly monitor your node's performance and logs to ensure it's operating correctly. Stay updated with the Peerplays community for any software updates or network changes.​

## **Additional Resources**

For more detailed information and support, refer to the official documentation and community channels associated with Peerplays 2.0.​

By following these steps, you should have a functional validator node contributing to the Peerplays 2.0 network.