Unlocking the potential of the Ethereum network, a node serves as a robust computer running Ethereum client software, intricately linked to fellow nodes within the network. Collaboratively, these nodes verify transactions and uphold the shared blockchain database, commonly known as a ledger. Diverse nodes and client software programs exist, each offering unique features and functionalities we'll explore shortly.

Key insights into Full and Archive nodes on Ethereum:

Full Node: Storing and meticulously managing recent block data (e.g., the last 128 blocks) on disk, a Full Node responds to requests by providing blockchain data. It actively contributes to network support through block validation and comprehensive verification of all blocks and states. A Full node becomes the source from which all states can be derived.

Archive Node: Possessing the capabilities of Full nodes, an Archive Node goes further by compiling an archive of historical states. Valuable for accessing historical blockchain data beyond the reach of Full nodes, Archive nodes, unlike their counterparts, are not obliged to partake in block validation. Moreover, they can be constructed from scratch using a Full node.

What is an Ethereum Full Node? In Ethereum's PoW consensus mechanism, a single client software characterizes a Full node. In the evolved state of Ethereum (ETH2 with Proof-of-Stake), a Full node comprises two distinct client software components—one for the consensus layer and another for the execution layer. These collaborative clients verify Ethereum's state and relay information to incoming JSON RPC requests and consensus layer validators.

Recommended hardware requirements for a Full node:

• Fast CPU with 4+ cores. High GHz/Core is important, starting at 3.5 GHz and more
• 16 GB RAM minimum requirement, 32GB is recommended
• SSD drive with 2TB disk space. As data capacity varies, a 4TB SSD drive is recommended to avoid disk space upgrades in the future. As of 2025, the Ethereum blockchain size is estimated to be over 2 TB, and considering the increase in dApps and smart contracts, additional storage might be needed.
• 1 Gbps internet speed with 30 - 40TB data transfer included.

What is an Ethereum Archive Node?

Mirroring Full node capabilities, an Archive Node curates an archive of historical states. This node proves indispensable for querying historical blockchain data beyond the last 128 blocks. Archive nodes are not obligated to engage in block validation and can be constructed from the ground up by replaying blocks from the genesis.

Due to storing historical states, the storage demand for running an Archive node is elevated. Running an Archive node necessitates around ~12 TB on Geth and ~2 TB on Erigon (subject to growth). So that you know, the database size and synchronization speed are client-specific and vary with configurations.

Recommended hardware requirements for a Full Archive node:

• Fast CPU with 4+ cores. High GHz/Core is important, starting at 3.5 GHz and more
• 16 GB RAM minimum requirement, 32GB is recommended
• Storage requirements depend on the client software ( Geth consumes ~15+ TB, while Erigon requires more than 2TB of disk space). SSD or NVMe disk space is recommended, as HDDs are too slow for operations.
• 1Gbps internet speed with 30 - 40TB data transfer included.

Colculsion

Running an Ethereum Full or Archive node in 2025 requires a solid understanding of node types, client software, and the increasing hardware demands of the ever-growing Ethereum blockchain. Whether contributing to network decentralization with a Full node or diving deep into historical data with an Archive node, choosing the proper infrastructure is critical. With fast NVMe storage, high-performance CPUs, and reliable connectivity, hosting your Ethereum node on a professionally managed server ensures stability, scalability, and long-term performance. As Ethereum evolves, staying ahead with the correct setup empowers you to participate fully in its decentralized future.