# Run an OCN Node

![Run an OCN Node](https://2400236058-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-M_pXALj14Egb-5Bal_p%2Fuploads%2FDsa0sfMKwfgvaqHtcoVx%2FOwn-OCN-node.png?alt=media\&token=e428ee0a-90e4-4507-8e44-b16837547ef5)

### Overview

The Open Charging Network is a decentralized implementation of the [OCPI 2.2](https://evroaming.org/app/uploads/2020/06/OCPI-2.2-d2.pdf) hub concept. Unlike traditional, centralized hub architecture, the OCN does not rely on a centralized server - the network is made up of a distributed network of server nodes. **Anybody can run an OCN node.**&#x20;

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QieCRl8rUu4>" %}
**Tutorial on running an OCN Node at minute 2:50**
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### Why Run a Node?

In the context of OCN, running a node means running and hosting an instance of the [OCN node software.](https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ocn-node)&#x20;

There are several benefits to running your own node of the network.&#x20;

* From an individual perspective, running a node makes you less dependent on external service providers
* From a network perspective, the Open Charging Network becomes more reliable the more nodes that are running

The following steps below help you to successfully set up and run your own OCN Node:

1. [Setup and Configuration](#1.-setup-and-configuration)
2. [Administration of Node and Connected Parties](#2.-administration-of-node-and-connected-parties)
3. [Keep Your OCN Node Up to Date](#3.-keep-your-ocn-node-up-to-date)

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Access the full OCN technical documentation [here](https://shareandcharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/OCN-Documentation-v1.1.pdf).
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### 1. Setup and Configuration

Before running a node and connecting it to a local, test or production environment, it is recommended to become acquainted with how the network operates first.&#x20;

For this, a demonstration of a network simulation with two OCN Nodes and mock parties ([CPO](https://energy-web-foundation.gitbook.io/energy-web-foundation/glossary-of-terms#charge-point-operator-cpo) and [eMSP)](https://energy-web-foundation.gitbook.io/energy-web-foundation/glossary-of-terms#e-mobility-service-provider-esmp) has been provided. Please visit this page to learn more and to find the necessary repositories for running the demo: [Examples](https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ocn-node/tree/feature/custom-modules/examples)

If you are familiar with the concept behind the Open Charging Network you can start the setup and configuration of your OCN Node. We recommend first running the node on the [Test Environment](https://energy-web-foundation.gitbook.io/energy-web-foundation/solutions-2023/open-charging-network/develop-on-the-test-network) before moving to [Production](https://energy-web-foundation.gitbook.io/energy-web-foundation/solutions-2023/open-charging-network/develop-on-the-production-network).&#x20;

Visit the OCN Node README page in the GitHub repository for a step-by-step guide and all necessary resources: [OCN Node Repository](https://github.com/energywebfoundation/ocn-node)

### 2. Administration of Node and Connected Parties

After you have set up and configured your OCN Node, you can now set up administration and access restrictions, and allow others to access your node using the OCN Node APIs.&#x20;

The [HTTP API Documentation](https://shareandcharge.bitbucket.io/) for the OCN Node describes the available endpoints which can be used by administrators and parties.&#x20;

Outside of the full OCPI v2.2 API, OCN Nodes provide additional features, such as the custom OCPI module, *OcnRules*, as well as ways for admins to restrict use and users to query the OCN Registry.

### **3.** Keep your OCN Node up to date

Every OCN Node is a crucial part of the overall Open Charging Network. **As soon as you run your own node, you are responsible for keeping it up to date**. This helps to keep the Open Charging Network efficient and secure.

The Energy Web Foundation is steering the development of all Open Charging Network Open Source components, and will release regular updates.

The release date of an update will be announced on our [Gitter community ](https://gitter.im/shareandcharge)at least two weeks before it will come into effect (be pushed from its DEVELOP BRANCH to the MASTER BRANCH). It is planned to keep the components downwards compatible at least one version, but this may not always be possible. **Please make sure that you update your OCN Node within 24 hours after the publication of a new release.**
