# Install A Local Node

{% hint style="info" %}
Installing a node takes only a few minutes. *The easiest way to deploy a persistent node that will be "always-on" is using a VPS service in the cloud.*
{% endhint %}

## Run a Mainnet or Testnet Node

### Mainnet

Running a mainnet node allows for participation in Taraxa's growing ecosystem either as a [validator](https://taraxa.gitbook.io/taraxa-network/become-a-validator) or as a node for relay, end users and applications.

### Testnet

Running a testnet node helps to ensure the continued improvement of the Taraxa protocol.   By [registering your node on the community site](https://taraxa.gitbook.io/taraxa-network/node-setup/proof_owership) you guarantee your node participates in testnet consensus as a validator and has the chance to earn rewards for helping improve Taraxa.

## Minimal Requirements

* CPU: 4vCPU
* RAM: 8 GB
* DISK SPACE: 250 GB

## Local Machine Installation

{% content-ref url="testnet\_node\_setup-1/windows" %}
[windows](https://taraxa.gitbook.io/taraxa-network/node-setup/testnet_node_setup-1/windows)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="testnet\_node\_setup-1/linux" %}
[linux](https://taraxa.gitbook.io/taraxa-network/node-setup/testnet_node_setup-1/linux)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="testnet\_node\_setup-1/mac" %}
[mac](https://taraxa.gitbook.io/taraxa-network/node-setup/testnet_node_setup-1/mac)
{% endcontent-ref %}


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