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Firo Masternode Setup Guide

Comprehensive tutorial for setting up and running a Firo masternode

Prerequisites

This guide assumes a basic knowledge of Linux and comfort with command-line interfaces. If you're new to these technologies, consider seeking assistance from the community.

Key Requirements

VPS Specifications

  • • 1-2 vCPU cores
  • • Minimum 2GB RAM with 2GB swap
  • • 35GB disk space
  • • Static IPv4 address
  • • Ubuntu 22.04 64-bit (recommended)

Collateral Requirements

  • • Latest Firo full node wallet
  • • Exactly 1000 FIRO
  • • Additional FIRO for transaction fees
  • • Secure wallet backup

Setup Overview

Setting up a masternode involves five major phases. Each phase is critical to ensure your masternode operates correctly and earns rewards.

Phase 1: Wallet Preparation

Encrypt and back up your desktop wallet, then collateral exactly 1000 FIRO in a single transaction to a transparent address. Use coin control if operating multiple masternodes.

Phase 2: Address Generation

Create four critical addresses:

  • Owner Address: New transparent address for masternode control
  • Payout Address: Where rewards are directed
  • Fee Source Address: Funds the registration transaction
  • Operator Keys: Generated via `bls generate` command

Phase 3: VPS Configuration

Recommended providers include Digital Ocean, Linode, Vultr, and OVH. Critical steps:

  • • Create a non-root user for security
  • • Install UFW firewall with port 8168 enabled
  • • Allocate 4GB swap space
  • • Update system packages

Phase 4: VPS Installation

Download the latest Firo Linux package, create configuration files with the operator's BLS private key, and allow the blockchain to sync completely.

Phase 5: Masternode Registration

Register on the local wallet using the `protx register` command with previously generated addresses and collateral information. The transaction must be confirmed on the blockchain.

Critical Warnings

Do NOT Re-use Collateral Address

Never re-use the collateral address as the owner address. This creates security vulnerabilities.

Never Move the 1000 FIRO Collateral

Moving or spending the 1000 FIRO will immediately disable your masternode. Keep it locked in the original address.

Private Keys are Irreplaceable

If you lose your BLS private key, you cannot recover it. Back up all keys securely and never share them.

Masternode Bans

Masternode bans occur if nodes go offline. Unbanning requires fixing the underlying issues that caused the downtime.

VPS Provider Recommendations

Additional Resources

For troubleshooting, systemd configuration, and community support, visit the official Firo resources.