> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.energyweb.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.energyweb.org/ewc-validator-documentation/guides/installing-a-validator-node/validator-node-installation-instructions.md).

# Validator Node Installation Instructions

{% hint style="info" %}
**Good to know: The overall process of installing a validator node is identical on both the Volta test network and the main Energy Web Chain. The only difference is the installation script used in Step 2 -  be sure that you use the correct installation script for the intended network!**&#x20;
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
We recommend using the Nethermind Validator Installation Script, as the OpenEthereum Client is no longer in development and has been deprecated. You can find the validator installation scripts here:

1. Volta:<https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ewc-validator-node-install-scripts/tree/master/volta-affiliate/nethermind>

2. EWC:\
   <https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ewc-validator-node-install-scripts/tree/master/ewc-affiliate/nethermind>
   {% endhint %}

3. Install the operating system and prepare the host machine according to the requirements (Step 1 in the previous checklist).&#x20;

4. Select the correct Client installation script matching the desired network and installed OS on the energyweb github:
   * For the VOLTA TEST NETWORK:  <https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ewc-validator-node-install-scripts/tree/master/volta-affiliate>, or copy the recommended client directory ([Nethermind](https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ewc-validator-node-install-scripts/tree/master/volta-affiliate/nethermind)) from the **volta-affiliate** directory to the host
   * For the main **ENERGY WEB CHAIN**: <https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ewc-validator-node-install-scripts/tree/master/ewc-affiliate>, or copy the recommended client directory ([Nethermind](https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ewc-validator-node-install-scripts/tree/master/ewc-affiliate/nethermind)) from the **ewc-affiliate** directory to the host

5. Make sure the latest system updates are installed by running :
   * For Debian and Ubuntu:

     ```
     sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get dist-upgrade
     ```

     For CentOS:

     ```
     sudo yum update
     ```

6. Make the script executable with&#x20;

   ```
   chmod +x ./install-*.sh
   ```

7. Run the script (NOTE: *please do not use the* `--auto` *parameter which can be used to take default for node-name and generate a random key*).

8. If the installation was successful, it should generate a .txt file (named **install-summary.txt**) that lists the **node address**, **IP address**, and **influxDB** **username/password**. You will need to provide these details via a form in the next step to successfully add your validator node to the [validator system contract](https://energyweb.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/EWF/pages/702119975/Validator+set+contracts).&#x20;
   * If you encounter issues with the installation or the **install-summary.txt** file is not generated:
     1. First review any [open issues on Github](https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ewc-validator-node-install-scripts/issues) to see if there is a known issue.
     2. If the issue is not already known, submit a question in the #validators or #technical\_questions channels in the [EWF Member Slack space](https://ewf-affiliates.slack.com) to troubleshoot.

9. Submit node installation details using the appropriate form below:
   1. For the VOLTA TEST NETWORK, enter details [here](https://share.hsforms.com/1t9po2Du9TgabWS28TQWx1A37vj2).&#x20;
   2. For the main **ENERGY WEB CHAIN,** enter details [here](https://share.hsforms.com/1UAF_LAH1RMeYCN-pUY5pnQ37vj2).&#x20;

10. After submitting the installation summary via the form, you will receive a confirmation email with next steps and links to helpful resources. &#x20;


---

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