Guide: Running a Rupaya Validator Node

This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and running a Rupaya validator node.

Prerequisites

• Docker and Docker Compose installed on your system
• Basic understanding of command-line interfaces
• A machine with at least 4GB of RAM and 50GB of free disk space

Steps

1. Clone the Repository

   Clone the official Rupaya validator setup repository to your local machine:

   git clone https://github.com/rupaya-project/valsetup.git
   cd valsetup

2. Set Up Configuration Files

   Create two files in the project directory:

   • password.txt: Contains the password for your node account
   • private_key.txt: Contains the private key of your validator account

   Make sure to keep these files secure and do not share them with anyone.

3. Configure Environment Variables

   The project likely includes a .env file or a sample .env.example file. If it doesn't exist, create a .env file in the project directory with the following content:

   NETWORK_ID=499
   SYNCMODE=full
   GCMODE=archive
   HTTP_API=eth,net,web3,txpool,miner
   WS_API=eth,net,web3,txpool,miner
   BOOTNODES=enode://your-bootnode-enode-url-here
   MINER_ETHERBASE=0xYourValidatorAddress
   VERBOSITY=3
   IMPORT_PRIVATE_KEY=true
   

   Replace YourValidatorAddress with your actual validator address. Adjust any other variables according to the project's specific requirements or recommendations.

4. Start the Validator Node

   Run the following command to start your validator node:

   docker-compose up -d

   This will build and start the Rupaya node in detached mode.

5. Monitor the Node

   You can check the logs of your node using:

   docker-compose logs -f

6. Share Validator Address

   After deploying your node, you need to share your validator address with Mobay. This is a crucial step as it allows them to add you to the list of approved validators.

   Join the Rupaya Discord server and contact mobay_ through Discord. Provide them with your validator address (the same address you used in the MINER_ETHERBASE environment variable).

7. Wait for Approval

   Mobay will review your request and add your address to the list of approved validators. Once approved, your node will start participating in the consensus process.

Maintenance

• Regularly check for updates to the node software by monitoring the rupaya-project/valsetup repository.
• Pull the latest changes and rebuild your node if there are updates:

  git pull
  docker-compose down
  docker-compose up -d --build

• Monitor your node's performance and connectivity.
• Ensure your system stays online and has a stable internet connection.

Security Considerations

• Keep your private key and password files secure.
• Regularly update your system and the Docker images.
• Use a firewall to restrict access to your node.
• Consider using SSH key-based authentication if accessing your node remotely.

Community and Support

Join the Rupaya Discord server for community support and updates. For validator-specific inquiries, you can contact mobay_ directly on Discord.

Remember, running a validator node comes with responsibilities. Ensure you understand the implications and requirements before proceeding. Always refer to the official rupaya-project/valsetup repository for the most up-to-date information and instructions.