Bitcoin Knots

1. What is Bitcoin Knots?

• An alternative implementation of Bitcoin, derived from Bitcoin Core but with enhanced features.
• Provides more control over transaction policies, mempool management, and network filtering.
• Fully compatible with Bitcoin Core, allowing seamless switching between the two.

2. Key Features & Enhancements

• Advanced Transaction Filtering – Reject spam, dust, and inefficient transactions.
• Stricter Mempool Policies – Reduces blockchain bloat with settings like Reject Parasites and Data Carrier Size.
• Customizable Pruning – Handles blockchain storage dynamically based on available space.
• Faster Feature Adoption – Incorporates community-driven enhancements before they appear in Bitcoin Core.

3. Installation & Setup Notes (Start9 Box)

• Installed via Start9’s Marketplace (Bitcoin Knots 28.1.0).
• Initial install error: "Config Generation Error: No Match: blkconstr: Field Is Not Nullable".
• Resolution: A simple restart of the Start9 box allowed Knots to sync and run normally.

4. Post-Installation Verification

• Sparrow Wallet successfully connected to Bitcoin Knots.
• Last block synced correctly, mempool data displayed as expected.
• Lightning apps (LND, RTL) running without issues.
• Small test transaction sent successfully via Coldcard & Sparrow Wallet.

5. Key Takeaways

• Bitcoin Knots runs smoothly on Start9 after an initial restart.
• Advanced filtering features help keep the network efficient.
• Fully compatible with existing wallets & Lightning services.