By Max Courchesne-Mackie, Security Architect at Figment, BSSC member
As blockchain ecosystems continue to grow, so does the need for clear, chain-agnostic guidance on how to securely operate nodes. Running a node in Web3 is not just about being part of a decentralized network, it also means acting as the bridge between traditional Web2 infrastructure and decentralized protocols. Node operators need a solid grounding in Web2 fundamentals like server security, access controls, supply chain risk assessment, operating system hardening, and monitoring, paired with an understanding of Web3-specific concepts such as consensus mechanisms, client security, and peer-to-peer communication.
That’s why the Blockchain Security Standards Council (BSSC) has introduced the Node Operation Standard (NOS), a first-of-its-kind framework designed to raise the baseline for node security across the entire blockchain ecosystem.
What Is the Node Operation Standard?
The Node Operation Standard (NOS) is a comprehensive set of security and operational requirements for companies operating blockchain nodes. It defines the security criteria expected of a node operator, with the goal of enabling clients and third parties to perform safe and confident integrations. Whether you're a staking provider, exchange, custodian, or any other organization running validators or other types of nodes, this standard applies to you.
What makes the NOS unique is its chain-agnostic approach to security. Instead of focusing on a single blockchain protocol, it offers a universal framework that can be applied across multiple networks by assessing an operator’s behaviors, procedures, and operational maturity in the Web3 space. This was a strategic decision by the BSSC, recognizing that while each protocol has its own quirks, there are foundational best practices that remain consistent regardless of the chain.
Why Chain-Agnostic Matters
Most blockchain standards are protocol-specific and take time to develop. That leaves many node operators in a holding pattern, waiting for the right guidance. The NOS solves that by giving them something they can adopt today. This standard provides a clear and actionable set of guidelines that covers the full lifecycle of node operations from onboarding to day-to-day operations and long-term resilience.
The Node Operation Standard supports the key domains related to running a node, including:
Built for Transparency and Trust
One of the NOS’s standout features is its focus on transparency. Operators are required to clearly communicate service terms with clients and partners, something that’s often inconsistent across the industry. This includes disclosing key elements such as:
By establishing these practices, the NOS helps node operators demonstrate their expertise, reliability, and accountability. It also helps clients and partners understand what to expect, reducing risk and increasing trust.
Raising the Bar for the Entire Ecosystem
Because the NOS is protocol-agnostic, its impact is bigger than any one network. It sets a baseline standard for all node operations, with the goal of improving security and reliability across the board. The standard doesn’t replace traditional Web2 server best practices but builds on them, layering in blockchain-specific context and risk considerations.
And that’s vital. Nodes underpin Web3 yet operate in the Web2 space. If they aren’t run securely, the integrity of entire blockchain networks is compromised.
Defining What "Good" Looks Like
At its core, the NOS defines what “good” looks like when it comes to running blockchain nodes. And when operators meet those requirements, they not only strengthen their own systems, they help secure the networks they support, giving the entire ecosystem greater stability and trust.
The takeaway: The Node Operation Standard isn’t just another checklist. It’s a foundational tool to help operators deliver secure, transparent, and resilient infrastructure that can scale with the future of blockchain.
To learn more or get involved with the Blockchain Security Standards Council, visit https://www.blockchainssc.org/membership.
