A "node" is a term referring to each individual computer or program connected to the Bitcoin network, and there are several types. These include nodes primarily engaged
in mining—the process of issuing new Bitcoins in exchange for rewards—as well as nodes used for wallet functions that manage addresses used in Bitcoin transactions, and nodes with lightweight wallet capabilities.
There are also nodes that verify Bitcoin transactions and transmit the correct ones. As Bitcoin becomes more widespread and expands, new nodes are emerging to support various convenient functions and meet evolving needs.
Bitcoin has no central authority managing issuance or circulation, nor any banking institutions managing balances or settlements; transactions are conducted on a case-by-case basis using addresses, so the number of addresses increases as transactions accumulate.
The function known as a "wallet" is designed to simplify this management. However, when a website or computer with wallet functionality connects to the Bitcoin network, each of these is referred to as a "node." It
may be a bit confusing, but essentially, every individual computer or server participating in the network is called a node.
