The Bitcoin network is a peer-to-peer network. The individual network participants (peers) communicate with each other to ensure the ongoing consistency of the network. If you want to become a full part of this network, you have to run the appropriate client software on your device. This is how the device takes on the role of a full node in the Bitcoin network.
In order to operate a full node effectively, however, you should not start this software from a normal home computer, as this was not designed for permanent operation. Of course, it also makes sense to install a Bitcoin wallet on a home computer and start it if necessary. However, leaving this device running 24 hours a day consumes significantly more resources than alternative options would.
Of these alternative options, two in particular are very popular. The first is renting a VPS, the hardware of which is located in a data center. This option is still very popular, especially with various altcoins, but since the Bitcoin blockchain requires a higher amount of storage space, a generic €5 VPS is no longer suitable for this purpose and you have to resort to a much more expensive variant.
The second option, which is very popular with those who want to keep their full nodes at home, is a mini-computer like the Raspberry Pi. The Raspberry Pi is an inexpensive hardware platform that generates little heat, little power consumed and can run silently 24 hours a day without having to think about it.
Setting up a Raspberry Pi is not easy, but if you enjoy tinkering with computers, the Pi not only offers a high degree of efficiency and security, but also a good portion of fun and a learning experience that should not be underestimated. In addition to the traditional Bitcoin Full Node, the Raspberry Pi is of course also suitable for a Lightning Node or a Full Node for various Altcoins.
Yous need to find an official reseller for Raspberry Pi products so that we can find all new Pi products in time for the release. So if you not only want to operate your own Bitcoin Full Node, but also want to pay for it with Bitcoin, you can find the right place. On the other hand, if you are more interested in conventional hardware, you can take a closer look at your electronics department.