This guide will walk you through installing a Pi Network Node for macOS. In addition, I have a guide to running Pi Network Node on Windows if you are running a PC. By running a node for the Pi Network, you will help support the network’s diversity and contribute to the decentralization of the community.
What is the Pi Network?
Pi Network is a new cryptocurrency that was launched in 2019. It aims to create a more accessible and user-friendly cryptocurrency by allowing users to mine Pi on their mobile devices. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies, where mining requires significant computing power and specialized hardware, Pi Network will enable users to mine Pi on their smartphones without additional equipment.
The Pi Network is built on blockchain technology similar to Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, unlike these cryptocurrencies, the Pi Network uses a consensus algorithm called “Proof of Work/Proof of Stake” to validate transactions and secure the network. In addition, this consensus algorithm is designed to be energy-efficient and sustainable, making it more eco-friendly than traditional cryptocurrencies.
I recommend looking at the official whitepaper to dig in further and understand more about the Pi Networks design and algorithm. I will list more links at the bottom of the article so you can do further in-depth research before investing your time and hardware into this project.
Pi Network Node for macOS requirements
Before we dive into the installation process, there are a few things that you’ll need to have:
- A macOS device with at least 4GB of RAM
- An internet connection
- A Pi Network account
If you don’t have a Pi Network account, you can download the Pi Network app from the App Store or Google Play Store and create an account. Once you have an account, you can install the Pi Network Node on your macOS.
Pi Network Node for macOS
1. Download Pi Node
Download the Pi Node software here. This application is relatively small and must sync with the mobile app.
2. Install the Pi Node app
Installing the Pi Network Node app in macOS is fairly simple. After launching the download, you need to drag and drop the icon to the Applications folder.
3. Sync Node with Phone
Now you need to sync your Pi Network node app with your mobile phone. A code will appear on your screen.
Open your Pi Network app on your phone, click on the menu option in the top left corner, and select Node.
Enter the authorization code, and click Confirm.
4. Launch Node software
Back at the Pi Network node app, click the ‘Node’ icon on the main screen.
You will be asked to apply and to answer some general questions about your computer. Enter answers that fit your situation.
Once submitted, you can then click the ‘Continue’ button.
5. Install Docker
Installing Docker is required next. Click on the ‘Download Docker Desktop’ button, and it will take you to the Docker site, where you can download and install the version best for your system.
6. Open Ports on Router.
If you are directly connected to your modem, you must ensure the Pi Network node app is allowed through your firewall if you have a router, open ports 31400 to 31409 on your router and point them to your computer.
Follow port forwarding guide for general steps to open ports on your router. If you are having issues logging in to your router, here are default router credentials for some of the more common manufatures.
Once your ports are open, click the ‘Check Now’ option and test your connectivity.
If everything passes, you will move on to the next part, where the Pi Node syncs and downloads a copy of the blockchain.
7. Download blockchain
Now your Pi Node is online, and you are a contributor to the network. Downloading the blockchain may sometime, but you can leave it running in the background. At any time you want to turn off the Node, there is a simple on/off switch at the main screen.
I recommend you leave your Node running as much as possible or schedule the time you have it up. Once the team rolls it out, this will establish your Node as a reliable location on the network and increase the possibility of becoming a SuperNode.
The Pi Node is one of the several nodes I run to generate passive income for my Project 100k. If you are looking for other utility nodes and guides, here is my node project watchlist.
Dive Deeper into the Pi Network
Here are useful links if you want to research more about the Pi Network and its team.
Name: Pi Network
Official site: https://minepi.com/
Blog: https://minepi.com/blog/
Roadmap: https://minepi.com/white-paper/#tab_644812ed4fad5
Community Accounts
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PiCoreTeam/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PiCoreTeam
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PiCoreTeam
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pi_network/
Video: Pi Network Node Setup for macOS (2023)
