> 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-to-participate-and-get-started.md).

# How to Participate & Get Started

The Blockcast network lets you contribute spare bandwidth, storage, and reach — and earn weekly rewards — by running a node. There are three node roles; most operators start at the entry tier and grow into a RELAY.

### BEACON, RELAY, and CAST

#### 1. BEACON — *the entry tier; every node starts here*

A BEACON is a lightweight receiver / attestation node, distributed as a Docker image. It helps verify delivery quality across the network and, as the software matures, receives multicast content at the deep edge. Running a BEACON is the fastest way to join and establish a verified hardware identity.

See [BEACON](/main/getting-started/how-do-i-participate-in-the-network/beacon.md).

#### 2. RELAY — *edge cache + AMT multicast relay*

A RELAY is the workhorse node: it caches popular content close to viewers and extends multicast reach into networks that can't peer directly with a CAST source (via AMT, RFC 7450). Operators self-onboard through the [Blockcast portal](https://app.blockcast.network/) — register the node, **stake on-chain to upgrade from BEACON to RELAY**, allocate storage, and commit bandwidth per network interface. Rewards accrue in proportion to **verified** bandwidth, uptime, and content served (Proof of Bandwidth).

See [RELAY](/main/getting-started/how-do-i-participate-in-the-network/relay.md) for the step-by-step onboarding guide.

#### 3. CAST — *multicast content source*

A CAST node is a high-capacity origin that sources multicast streams for a region. CAST nodes are placed where they're needed most — typically a data center or multicast-native network with a strong uplink — serving many RELAY and BEACON nodes.

See [CAST](/main/getting-started/how-do-i-participate-in-the-network/cast.md).

### How It Fits Together

CAST nodes source content → RELAY nodes cache it and fan multicast out over AMT → BEACON nodes receive at the deep edge. The Traffic Router directs each viewer to the nearest healthy node, and Proof of Bandwidth continuously verifies the capacity operators commit. By participating you help decentralize content delivery — bringing it closer to users while reducing congestion and cost — and earn rewards for the capacity you verifiably provide.

The fastest way to start is to **run a BEACON today**, then stake to upgrade to a full RELAY.