Bitcoin Core vs. Bitcoin Knots

Bitcoin Core is the reference software that powers most of the Bitcoin network. It's known for its stability and careful approach to changes, which helps keep Bitcoin secure and reliable.

Recently, Core has adopted more permissive policies regarding non-monetary data, allowing a wider range of content on the blockchain.

Bitcoin Knots is a direct fork of Bitcoin Core, but with additional features and greater flexibility. It gives node operators more control - especially when it comes to filtering out unwanted data, sometimes called “spam,” that can clog the blockchain.

What is “Spam” on Bitcoin?

Bitcoin's blockchain is designed to record financial transactions. However, it can also be used to store unrelated data - such as images, messages, or arbitrary files. This is often called “spam” because it fills space intended for monetary transfers. Here's why this is a problem:

  • When blocks are filled with non-monetary data, the blockchain grows faster than necessary.
  • Every full node must store all this data permanently, increasing storage and bandwidth costs.
  • As the blockchain gets bigger, running a node becomes harder for regular users, leading to fewer people participating.
  • Fewer nodes means more centralization, which weakens Bitcoin's security and resilience.

Why Does This Matter?

Without effective filtering, blocks can be filled with non-monetary data, making the blockchain larger and less efficient. This isn't just a technical issue - it affects everyone who wants to run a node and help keep Bitcoin decentralized.

  • Bitcoin Core: By default, it allows more non-monetary data, which can lead to unnecessary blockchain bloat.
  • Bitcoin Knots: With default settings like rejectparasites=1, Knots can filter out much of this non-monetary data, keeping the blockchain focused on real transactions.

How Bitcoin Knots Helps

Bitcoin Knots gives node operators the power to filter out non-monetary data by default, helping keep the blockchain lean, efficient, and focused on its original purpose: money.

Want to run your own node? Projects like StartOS, Umbrel, and Nix Bitcoin make it easy.

Already running Core? Switching to Knots is simple. It's fully compatible with your existing blockchain data and wallet. Just download Knots, stop your Core node, and start Knots using the same data directory. No re-sync or migration needed.

Are you a Pool Miner? You Can Still Help!

If you mine with a traditional pool, you usually have no say in which transactions go into the blocks you help create - the pool operator decides for everyone. This centralizes power and can lead to blocks filled with non-monetary “spam,” which bloats the blockchain and weakens Bitcoin.

Some newer pools are experimenting with protocols that allow individual miners to construct their own block templates. Currently, Ocean Pool is the first to offer this with their DATUM protocol, enabling miners to use software like Bitcoin Knots to decide what goes into the blocks they help create. This approach gives miners more control and supports decentralization. As this technology matures, other pools may adopt similar features.

  • More control: Miners can participate in block selection, supporting decentralization.
  • Potential for lower fees: Some pools (Ocean) offer incentives for miners who build their own blocks.
  • Healthier network: Filtering out spam helps keep the blockchain lean and accessible for everyone.

Exploring pools that support miner block selection with Knots gives you more control and helps keep Bitcoin decentralized.