Managing Two Computers with Local Blockchain Sync + Internet
When setting up multiple computers to sync local Bitcoin blockchains over the Internet, two questions often arise: how to configure the software and what options should be considered for a seamless and efficient sync process? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the configuration options available for Bitcoin Core and make sure both computers are connected to each other and to the Internet.
Understanding Two Computer Configuration
To set up two computers to sync their local blockchains over the Internet, you have several options:
- Using a Central Node: One computer acts as the central node while the second connects and downloads blocks from it via a client. This configuration is called a “central node” or “masternode.”
- Direct Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Connection: Both computers are directly connected to each other over the Internet, bypassing a central point. This approach allows for faster syncing but may increase network bandwidth consumption.
- Bitcoin Core with two separate wallets: Each computer has its own Bitcoin Core wallet and connects over the internet, but this requires careful setup and management of separate wallets.
Configuration options for dual-computer setup
For optimal performance and security, follow these configuration options:
1. Using a central node (central node configuration)
*Bitcoin Core setup: Make sure both computers are running Bitcoin Core version 0.20.0 or higher.
*Central node configuration: Configure your central node to use the URL “ which is recommended for security reasons.
**Example:
`beats
bitcoincore-rc.conf:1
[core]
http =
bitcoincore-rc.conf:2
[core]
http =
`
2. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Direct Connection
* Bitcoin Core Setup : Make sure both computers are running Bitcoin Core version 0.20.0 or higher.
* Network Settings
: Set the “Network” option to “On” and use “locale+inet” as the network type.
**Example:
`strokes
bitcoincore-rc.conf:1
[net]
type=local+inet
bitcoincore-rc.conf:2
[net]
type=local+inet
`
3. Bitcoin Core with two separate wallets (client-client setup)
* Bitcoin Core setup : Make sure both machines are running Bitcoin Core version 0.20.0 or higher.
* Wallet creation and sync : Create separate Bitcoin Core clients on each machine and make sure they use different wallet paths.
Example (for client-to-client configuration)
`strokes
bitcoincore-rc.conf:1
[wallet]
Path=/path/to/wallet
bitcoincore-rc.conf:2
[wallet]
Path=/path/to/second wallet
`
further considerations
* Network security : If using a central node, ensure the connection is encrypted (e.g. via “OpenSSL”) to prevent eavesdropping and tampering.
* Wallet sync : If using separate wallets, make sure you sync them properly to avoid losing funds.
Conclusion
To set up two computers with local blockchain and internet sync, it is important to understand the various configuration options available for Bitcoin Core. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a seamless and efficient synchronization process between your computers and central nodes or peer-to-peer connections.