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102 sats \ 1 reply \ @servingbitcoin_com 12h \ on: Serving Bitcoin – refurbished bitcoin nodes bitcoin
Thank you for the shout out.
Yes. We create StartOS DIY x86 nodes from refurbished PCs. We do so by testing the existing hardware, optionally installing new hardware like 2TB or 4TB NVMe drives or RAM, perform firmware updates, and preinstall StartOS DIY.
We sell both Full (2TB or 4TB) and Pruned (256GB) nodes. At this time, StartOS is only preinstalled. Users must chose which version of bitcoin to install (Core or Knots) and perform the initial blockchain download.
It is possible for us to preinstall either Core or Knots and have most of the blockchain already synced. But this bears more risk.
- We will have to set the StartOS password and hope the customer changes is
- The node's LAN address will no longer be http://start.local/, but will be a random http://noun-verb.local/ (making it more difficult for us to provide access instructions, and more support tickets)
- The TOR address will also be generated; adding customer risk that we might remotely connect and login
With good communication, perhaps these risks could be mitigated.
Regarding trusting us with StartOS, we prefer customers don't. The BIOS is unlocked and savvy users may reinstall whatever they want (StartOS, Umbrel, NodeOS, or even non-Bitcoin solutions like Linux or Proxmox).
There are, however, users who want things done for them. We feel a factory-fresh image of StartOS DIY with all default settings is the best balance for risk and convenience.
We're young and small. Ping us on Nostr (npub16jwvpxxpg5zkfcemmyx9ryreje5suh5hluxa4e4uhpmve3cudrrsk8cjwp) if you have any further suggestions or ideas. Thank you for serving bitcoin in any way you see fit.
GENESIS