The Q network knows different types of full nodes: 

  • Validator nodes validate transactions. Their role is comparable to validators on other proof-of-stake networks. 
  • Root nodes are unique to Q – they have a special role in enforcing the Q constitution. One of the requirements for root nodes is that they need to operate a full-node, providing them with a direct view on what is happening onchain. 
  • Lastly, anyone who is interested can operate a full node, giving them direct verifiability of onchain actions. As the saying goes: “don’t trust, verify!”

What all of these types of nodes share is a desire for high uptime and availability. Apart from the node’s initial setup, this may require rebooting and synchronization of the node every now and then. 

However, synching a full node is no quick task. With a history of more than three years of uninterrupted operation, the Q mainnet can take up to a full day to synchronize when starting from scratch. 

This is where a snapshot service comes in handy: a trusted community participant can provide regular snapshots of the network’s state, enabling node operators to synchronize within minutes. 

Stakecraft is a long-standing member of the Q community that provides such a snapshot service. As one of the earliest validators on the Q network, Stakecraft knows the ins and outs of Q. Its snapshot service is available both for Q mainnet and Q testnet and can be used free of charge by anyone in the Q community. 

If you want to use Stakcraft’s snapshot service for Q, check out their documentation: 

https://services.stakecraft.com/docs/snapshots/q-mainnet-snapshot

https://services.stakecraft.com/docs/snapshots/q-testnet

One last remark: When using the snapshot service, it is important to be aware of potential security implications: in general, when using a snapshot service, you rely on the trustworthiness of the service’s operator. On Q, however, there is an additional safety feature: Root nodes are required to co-sign transition blocks, testifying to the integrity of the chain. So as long as the majority of root nodes is honest, node operators can rest assured that the snapshot is valid. With that said:  

Happy synching!