# How do I keep my Bitcoin node secure and private?

Source URL: https://helpcenter.dxp-frontend.devserver.app/education/nodes/set-up-and-optimization/how-do-i-keep-my-bitcoin-node-secure-and-private
Updated: 2026-04-24T13:51:00.000Z
Category: Nodes
Section: Set Up and Optimization

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We suggest using an open-source software client, such as [Bitcoin Core](https://blog.blockstream.com/education/nodes/what-is-bitcoin-core/), so that its code can be fully audited and verified to be secure.

Traffic on the Bitcoin network is not encrypted, which means if you run a Bitcoin node, your internet service provider (ISP) will be able to see that you are running a node. However, take comfort in knowing they are unable to alter your transactions, as any change would require a new signature with your private key.

To keep your node [private](https://blog.blockstream.com/education/nodes/is-it-better-to-use-tor-or-a-vpn/), use TOR (the onion router) to connect to the outside world. Alternatively, you can use a VPN (virtual private network) to obscure the traffic from your node, but be aware that many VPN providers keep logs and will hand them over to third parties upon request.

Most, if not all, of the node distributions we listed [previously](https://blog.blockstream.com/education/nodes/how-do-i-set-up-and-run-a-bitcoin-node/) support and integrate TOR connectivity. This also makes it easier for you to connect to a self-hosted node from the internet.

Navigation: Blockstream Help Center > Education > Nodes > How do I keep my Bitcoin node secure and private?

## Related Articles in This Section
- [How do I set up and run a Bitcoin node?](https://helpcenter.dxp-frontend.devserver.app/education/nodes/set-up-and-optimization/how-do-i-set-up-and-run-a-bitcoin-node)
- [What is Bitcoin Core?](https://helpcenter.dxp-frontend.devserver.app/education/nodes/set-up-and-optimization/what-is-bitcoin-core)
- [How do I keep my Bitcoin node secure and private?](https://helpcenter.dxp-frontend.devserver.app/education/nodes/set-up-and-optimization/how-do-i-keep-my-bitcoin-node-secure-and-private) (current)
- [Is it better to use TOR or a VPN?](https://helpcenter.dxp-frontend.devserver.app/education/nodes/set-up-and-optimization/is-it-better-to-use-tor-or-a-vpn)