![bitcoin-3406183__480.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmX6vhVzEEb1Uxw3goKwXdTauR5hTFWE9n25ancp2StofC/bitcoin-3406183__480.jpg)

When a computer becomes part of a blockchain network to record and confirm transactions or blocks, they are known as nodes. Some nodes join the network to perform only fundamental activities while some join to fully protect the network. Nodes which only download blockheaders to record, validate and get rewards or earnings through mining are known as lightweight nodes. These types of nodes carry out limited transactions and sometimes validate transactions which are not supposed to be confirmed. 

While nodes that fully protect the network are referred to as full nodes. They ensure that every transaction or block that is validated allign with core consensus protocol of the distributed blockchain network. These nodes are the main support of the cryptocurrency network and protect the trustless nature of the network.