3Nodes
Physical computing hardware that can be bought and sold within the ThreeFold Marketplace using TFP.
Overview
3Nodes are physical computing hardware (servers, computers) that can be bought and sold within the TF Marketplace using TFP. Users can purchase 3Nodes in two distinct ways: either hosted by the supplier or physically transferred to the buyer.
Supplier-Hosted
Buy the 3Node with upfront TFP payment but have it hosted in the supplier's facility. You maintain ownership while the supplier handles physical maintenance.
Ideal for: Buyers without suitable hosting facilities
Physical Transfer
Buy the 3Node with upfront TFP payment and have it physically shipped to your location. Complete physical control and responsibility for the hardware.
Ideal for: Buyers with their own hosting capabilities
Core Principles
Hardware Exchange
Direct marketplace for physical computing equipment
Sovereignty
Buyers gain full ownership of purchased hardware
Fair Pricing
Market-driven pricing with transparency
TFP-Based
All transactions conducted using TFP
Quality Assurance
Hardware specifications verified and rated
Flexible Ownership
Options for hosted or physically transferred hardware
How It Works
For Sellers
Hardware Registration
- Register available hardware with detailed specifications
- Upload verification photos and documentation
- Set pricing in TFP
- Define shipping options and costs
Listing Management
- Update hardware availability
- Modify pricing based on market conditions
- Respond to buyer inquiries
- Track sales and shipping
For Buyers
Hardware Discovery
- Browse available 3Nodes with filtering options
- Compare specifications and pricing
- Review seller ratings and history
- Ask questions about specific hardware
Purchase Process
- Select desired 3Node and purchase option (hosted or transferred)
- Pay upfront using TFP for either option
- For physical transfer: arrange shipping and delivery
- For hosted option: receive access credentials
- Verify functionality and condition
Hardware Specifications
3Nodes can include various types of computing hardware:
Servers
Enterprise-grade rack servers
Desktop Computers
Repurposed or custom-built desktops
Mini PCs
Compact computing devices
Custom Builds
Purpose-built hardware for TF Grid farming
Each listing includes detailed specifications:
- CPU type and core count
- Memory capacity and type
- Storage capacity and type
- Network interfaces
- Power consumption
- Physical dimensions
- Age and condition
TFP Exchange Mechanism
For Physically Transferred Hardware
- TFP transferred from buyer to seller upon purchase agreement
- Escrow system protects both parties during shipping
- Final release upon confirmed delivery and verification
For Supplier-Hosted Hardware
- Upfront TFP payment to secure ownership
- Revenue sharing agreement between buyer and hoster/seller
- Hoster defines and receives a portion of farming revenue
- Clear SLAs define uptime and performance guarantees
Hosting vs. Physical Transfer Comparison
| Aspect | Supplier-Hosted | Physical Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Location | Supplier's facility | Buyer's location |
| Payment Model | Upfront TFP payment | Upfront TFP payment |
| Revenue Sharing | Yes - hoster gets portion of farming revenue | No - buyer keeps 100% of farming revenue |
| Maintenance | Handled by supplier | Buyer's responsibility |
| Power & Cooling | Provided by supplier | Buyer's responsibility |
| Internet Connectivity | Provided by supplier | Buyer's responsibility |
| Physical Access | Limited or none | Complete |
| Setup Complexity | Minimal (handled by supplier) | Buyer must set up |
| Best For | Users without hosting facilities | Users with hosting capabilities |
Benefits
Direct Exchange
No intermediaries between hardware sellers and buyers
Ecosystem Growth
Facilitates expansion of the TF Grid through hardware redistribution
Resource Optimization
Gives new life to underutilized hardware
Sovereignty
Buyers gain full ownership of their hardware, regardless of hosting location
Flexibility
Choose between hosted or physically transferred hardware based on needs
Community Building
Connects hardware providers with potential farmers
Ready to Buy or Sell 3Nodes?
Visit the ThreeFold Marketplace 3Nodes section to start exploring options.