> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.blockcast.network/main/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.blockcast.network/main/getting-started/how-do-i-participate-in-the-network/beacon.md). # BEACON BEACON is a Docker image that serves as the guardian and watcher of our network. These nodes play a critical role in maintaining network integrity and quality by monitoring performance, ensuring honest participation from all network participants, and verifying delivery metrics. As the network evolves, BEACON nodes will expand their capabilities to function as multicast receiving endpoints, forming the backbone of our distributed content delivery infrastructure. ### Why Run a BEACON Node? By running a BEACON node, you: * **Contribute to network security** by monitoring and validating network activity * **Help ensure quality** across the Blockcast Network delivery infrastructure * **Enable multicast delivery** as nodes evolve into receiving endpoints Running a BEACON node is super easy! All you need to do is download our Docker Image, run a few commands, and you’ll be participating in the Blockcast Network in no time. * [**Start Running your BEACON Today**](/main/getting-started/how-do-i-participate-in-the-network/beacon/start-running-your-beacon-today.md) * **Earning and Tracking Rewards** * Coming Soon --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.blockcast.network/main/getting-started/how-do-i-participate-in-the-network/beacon.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.