# Ethereum bootnodes explained by ChatGPT

A bootnode is a special type of Ethereum node that is used to help new nodes discover other nodes on the network and establish connections with them. Bootnodes are typically run by volunteers and serve as a starting point for new nodes to find their way onto the Ethereum network.

To run a bootnode, you will need to have a full Ethereum node set up and running on your machine. This typically involves installing the Go Ethereum (Geth) or Parity Ethereum client and syncing the node with the Ethereum blockchain. Once your node is synced, you can start it in bootnode mode by running the following command:

geth --bootnodes "enode://<node ID>@<IP address>:<port>"

Replace <node ID>, <IP address>, and <port> with your own node's ID, IP address, and port number. The node ID is a unique identifier for your node that is generated when you start it in bootnode mode. The IP address and port number are the network address and port that other nodes can use to connect to your bootnode.

There are many different bootnodes that are currently running on the Ethereum network, and they are typically run by volunteers who want to help support the network. These bootnodes are added to the list of default bootnodes that are included with Ethereum clients such as Geth and Parity, so new nodes can automatically discover them and connect to the network.

If you want to run your own bootnode and have it added to the list of default bootnodes, you will need to contact the maintainers of the Ethereum client you are using and provide them with your node's ID, IP address, and port number. They will then consider adding your bootnode to the list of default bootnodes for their client. Keep in mind that running a bootnode requires a significant amount of bandwidth and may incur additional costs, so it is important to carefully consider whether you are able to support this effort before deciding to run your own bootnode.