# How to Participate & Get Started

The Blockcast CDN allows node operators like you to directly enhance network performance and earn rewards. 

### Receive, Relay, and Cast

#### **1. Receive** \&#xNAN;*Action: Install the Blockcast Receiver client (coming soon on Linux, macOS, Windows and ChromeOS)*

When the software client becomes available, you'll be able to:

* Join the network as a Receiver node.
* Earn points by verifying the multicast reception and the uplink from Relay and Cast nodes.
* Prove ownership of resources to become eligible to operate a public Relay node.
* Preload new software and content releases and experience higher bandwidth for live streams by joining group data delivery channels.

#### **2. Relay** \&#xNAN;*Action: Pre-order a specialized RELAY node from Blockcast and serve your local area*

The RELAY node is a key part of the Blockcast CDN. As a Relay operator, you'll use excess bandwidth to serve other users in your area, contributing to the network's efficiency and security while earning rewards.

**What is a Blockcast RELAY Node?**

* A RELAY node is a Receiver node that meets stringent security and performance standards, capable of serving content from major platforms like streaming video or gaming.
* RELAY nodes must have at least 1 Gbps uplink or be able to reach 25 Receivers via multicast with over 99% weekly uptime.

**Why Hardware Requirements Matter**

* Security is paramount. Data is encrypted and delivered securely from the content origin to the CDN nodes. The hardware must support a trusted boot process, ensuring that only trusted, tamper-proof nodes can operate in the Blockcast CDN.

#### **3. Cast** \&#xNAN;*Action: Provide multicast coverage to large groups of users (coming soon)*

As the network grows and more Receivers come online in an area, Cast nodes will become available. These nodes will serve as multicast proxies, enabling efficient content delivery to a large number of users via the Blockcast CDN.

**Becoming a Cast Node Operator**

* Once there are 1,000 or more Receivers in a region without multicast coverage, a Cast node can be established to serve that area. Relay nodes may also work together to form an AMT server for broader coverage.

### How It All Fits Together

By participating as a Receiver, Relay, or Cast node operator, you'll help Blockcast decentralize content delivery, bringing it closer to users while reducing network congestion and latency. 

Pre-ordering a RELAY node is the first way to get involved, with software-based Receiver nodes and Cast nodes launching in the coming months.

The best way to get started is by **pre-ordering a RELAY node**. 

This will position you at the forefront of Blockcast’s mission, allowing you to contribute to a faster, more efficient internet while earning rewards.

Stay tuned for more ways to participate soon!