Standard Guide: How to Host an XDC Masternode


This guide walks you through the end-to-end steps to host an XDC Network Masternode — whether you’re using:

  • Private Key / Mnemonic phrase
  • Fireblocks/Other Wallet via WalletConnect v2
  • XDCPay / Keystore or browser wallets

From server setup, wallet login, KYC submission, staking, to node activation.

What Is an XDC Masternode?

An XDC Masternode is a validating node that:

  • Helps secure and validate the XDC blockchain
  • Participates in consensus and block production
  • Earns rewards for active participation
  • Requires a minimum 10,000,000 XDC stake locked for staking
  • Must submit KYC and be approved on the Masternode App to be active.

Prerequisites

Before you begin:
Node Server

Deploy your masternode on a remote server (recommended):
✔ Ubuntu 20.04 / 22.04 LTS
✔ Docker / Script-based setup
✔ Public IP and stable internet

Wallet & Funds

You also need:
✔ A wallet holding at least 10,000,000 XDC
✔ The wallet’s private key or mnemonic phrase (if using non-custodial login)
✔ KYC document in PDF format (signed and verifiable)

Coinbase address

This is your masternode identity on the chain.

Coinbase address: Your node’s validator address, generated when setting up your masternode server.

Example format:
xdc……………………………………b

⚠️ Important:

  • This is NOT your wallet address
  • It is your masternode server’s coinbase address

Step-by-Step Masternode Hosting

OPTION 1: Hosting Using Docker

This method is ideal for developers and advanced users who want more control.

Step 1: Clone repository

git clone https://github.com/XinFinOrg/XinFin-Node.git

Enter XinFin-Node directory

cd XinFin-Node

Step 2: Install Docker & Update .env file with details

sudo apt update
sudo ./setup/install_docker.sh

Create .env file by using the sample - .env.example

Enter either your company or product name in the INSTANCE_NAME field.

Enter your email address in CONTACT_DETAILS field.

cd mainnet # testnet
cp env.example .env
nano .env

Step 3: Start your Node

For Mainnet

Run:

docker compose -f docker-compose.yml up -d

Your coinbase address can be found in xdcchain/coinbase.txt file.

To stop the node or if you encounter any issues use:

docker compose -f docker-compose.yml down

OPTION 2: Hosting Using Bootstrap Script

This is the recommended and easiest method for most users.

Step 1: Run Bootstrap Script

sudo su -c "bash <(wget -qO- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/XinFinOrg/XinFin-Node/master/setup/bootstrap.sh)" root
  • Choose mainnet when prompted
  • Name your node
  • This generates your node environment and Coinbase address
  • Always back up private key/keystore

Visit the Masternode App

Go to the official Masternode app:

🔹 Mainnet: https://mn.xinfin.network
🔹 Testnet: https://mn.apothem.network

Click Login to begin.

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Choose a Login Method

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LOGIN OPTION 1 — Private Key | Mnemonic Phrase

  1. Select Private Key / Mnemonic from the network provider list
  2. Paste your wallet’s private key or mnemonic phrase securely
  3. Approve login to the Masternode App

⚠️ Keep this phrase secure — anyone with it controls your funds and stake.

LOGIN OPTION 2 — WalletConnect (Fireblocks / Other Wallets)

A. Fireblocks Flow

  1. Select WalletConnect v2 as Network Provider
  2. A QR code appears for Fireblocks Web3 Wallet
  3. Open your Fireblocks Web3 Wallet
  4. Scan the QR and Connect Vault to dApp
  5. Choose your vault account (with ≥10M XDC)
  6. Click Connect vault
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Fireblocks will manage your keys securely, and your Masternode app access is approved through WalletConnect.

This method lets you keep keys in institutional custody and apply governance rules via Fireblocks Policy Engine.

Additional Wallet Options

Other wallets like XDCPay or browser wallets can also be used — simply select them and connect.

Become a Candidate

Once connected/logged in:

  • Click Become a Candidate

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  • Upload your KYC PDF

📌 Your KYC must be signed by a verifiable authority (e.g., notary, lawyer, company secretary).

Enter Coinbase Address & Apply

In the staking form:

  • Enter the Coinbase address you generated on your masternode server
  • This links your on-chain node identity to your staked wallet
  • Click Apply

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Your wallet (Fireblocks or private key login) will prompt you to approve the staking transaction.

Approve & Confirm Staking

The Masternode App will send a transaction to:
✔ Lock 10,000,000 XDC in the node contract
✔ Confirm your node proposal on chain

Depending on your wallet, approve it:

  • If using Fireblocks: Fireblocks verifies with your Policy Engine rules
  • If using private key/mnemonic: Sign the transaction locally securely

Verification & Active Status

Once the stake transaction confirms:
✔ Your masternode proposal has been submitted
✔ The node enters the round-robin selection pool
✔ After acceptance, your node becomes active and earns block rewards

Use a block explorer (e.g., xdcscan) to track the transaction & status.

Best Practices for Key + Wallet Security

Private Key / Mnemonic

  • Keep keys offline in secure vaults
  • Do not store keys in plain documents
  • Use hardware wallets if possible

Fireblocks Custodial Login

  • Keys are held in MPC hardware enclaves
  • Fireblocks Policy Engine enforces transaction governance
  • Requires admin approvals for sensitive transactions

This adds a strong enterprise-grade layer of protection.

Useful Links

Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Participation in the XDC Network ecosystem, including masternode hosting and staking, involves risk. Always conduct your own research before making any decisions.

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