EarthNodes: The Backbone of World Mobile
At the edge of World Mobile’s network are the AirNodes, people-owned devices that form the physical layer of the network and deliver internet access to homes, shops, schools, and communities. But while AirNodes provide the connection, they don’t run the network. Behind them is a less visible but equally essential layer: the EarthNodes, which manage the data and decision-making that keep the network running.
EarthNodes are the compute infrastructure behind World Mobile. They don’t transmit Wi-Fi or mobile signals, and they don’t need to be installed locally. Instead, they operate in the background by verifying transactions, processing usage data, and authorizing services. When users connect through an AirNode, that activity is routed through EarthNodes for validation and enforcement.
EarthNodes are what transform network activity into verifiable, tamper-resistant records, making the system both accountable and auditable.
1. What Are EarthNodes?
EarthNodes are distributed servers that handle the backend logic of the World Mobile network. Operated by individuals or organizations, they process data, verify usage, and enforce rules that keep the system reliable and secure.
Each EarthNode runs containerized software on a high-uptime machine. This could be a home server, a virtual private server, or a data center instance. The setup is designed for flexibility and allows operators around the world to contribute regardless of location.
Unlike blockchain validators, EarthNodes do not produce blocks or reach consensus. Instead, they operate alongside the blockchain as a service layer. Their role is to authenticate users, validate network activity, and pass verified data to the chain for accountability. This ensures that what happens on the network is provable, consistent, and tamper-resistant.
How to Become an EarthNode Operator
Running an EarthNode requires technical skills, capable hardware, and a financial commitment. Each node is linked to a unique EarthNode NFT (ENNFT), a blockchain license that grants the right to operate one node. Only 1,000 ENNFTs exist, making them intentionally limited.
Early participants locked 100,000 WMT to claim an ENNFT. Unclaimed slots were later auctioned. Today, ENNFTs can be traded on secondary markets. Holding an ENNFT alone does not earn rewards. The node must be online and meet performance standards.
Technical Requirements
World Mobile uses built-in monitoring to verify that EarthNodes meet network standards. Only nodes that stay online, perform well, and respond reliably can earn full rewards or run advanced services.
Operators should be comfortable with system administration, including:
- Keeping uptime high
- Managing updates
- Monitoring system performance
Network Performance Checks
EarthNodes are automatically monitored for:
- Hardware capacity (CPU, memory, storage)
- Uptime and availability
- Validation participation
- Service responsiveness
Minimum and Recommended Specs
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 2 cores @ 1.8GHz | 4 cores @ 2.4GHz |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB |
| Disk | 50GB SSD | 100GB SSD |
| Network | 50/50 Mbps | 500/500 Mbps |
Notes:
- CPU: AES-NI support is optional but helpful
- File system: ext4, XFS, or Btrfs
- Disk IOPS: 1000+ preferred
- Latency: Under 100ms to major exchanges
- IP: Static preferred, dynamic accepted
- Firewall: Must allow P2P communication
Operating System Compatibility
EarthNode software supports:
- Ubuntu 20.04 or 22.04 LTS
- Debian 11 or newer
- CentOS/RHEL 8 or newer
As of 2025, the EarthNode software is in final testing. World Mobile is onboarding early operators through testnets and a guided setup. A full mainnet launch is expected soon, along with additional tools and documentation for new operators.
Calling all EarthNode Operators to:
- Join the ENO Group.
- Follow the EarthNode Setup Guide.
- Check out the EarthNode Managed Service provided by The Club
1.2 ENNFTs and Future Value
EarthNode NFTs (ENNFTs) are limited-use licenses, minted on Cardano, that unlock a unique role within World Mobile’s infrastructure. Their capped supply, fixed at 1,000, introduces a scarcity model that sets them apart from other blockchains systems. Each ENNFT grants its holder exclusive access to run an EarthNode, but also represents something more: a direct, permissioned entry point into the protocol’s service layer.
Unlike speculative NFTs or open node systems where anyone can participate, ENNFTs are tightly bound to operational capacity. Inactive holders do not earn rewards, and idle slots can be voluntarily relinquished in exchange for the underlying staked WMT.
Looking forward, World Mobile has outlined governance rights for ENNFT holders through a dedicated EarthNode DAO. This would allow operators to participate in protocol-level decisions, including upgrades, fee structures, and service expansion. Other privileges may follow, such as early access to new network modules or commercial integrations.
As World Mobile scales, the value of ENNFTs may increasingly reflect more than just the rewards they enable. They combine exclusive access, functional utility, and participatory governance within a growing decentralized telecom network. For technically capable contributors, this creates an asset class rooted in infrastructure ownership rather than speculation.
ENNFTs are not passive instruments. For those willing to meet the standard, they offer a verifiable, revenue-generating role inside the core architecture of a global network.
You can buy one or more on JPG.STORE.
2. The Role of EarthNodes in the Network
World Mobile’s decentralized architecture is built on three node types: AirNodes, EarthNodes, and AetherNodes. Each serves a distinct function within the system’s layered design.
- AirNodes operate at the edge. They provide last-mile wireless coverage by connecting user devices via Wi-Fi or cellular radio.
- AetherNodes sit at the top layer. They connect the World Mobile network to external systems such as traditional telecom infrastructure. AetherNodes are often operated by World Mobile or strategic partners. They coordinate inter-regional traffic and assist in onboarding and synchronizing AirNodes & EarthNodes.
- EarthNodes form the core processing layer. They receive data from AirNodes, validate its integrity, authorize user access, and interact with the blockchain.
Key Functions of EarthNodes
2.1 Identity and Access Control
EarthNodes handle decentralized user authentication. When a user connects to the network, the EarthNode verifies their identity using Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) and blockchain-based access records. This replaces the need for a central authentication server and ensures secure, user-controlled identity validation.
2.2 Data Verification and Logging
Every interaction on the network, such as browsing, calling, or messaging, generates IPDRs (Internet Protocol Detail Records). EarthNodes are responsible for validating this usage data. They ensure that logs accurately reflect user activity and have not been tampered with. This ensures billing accuracy, reward fairness, and operational integrity.
2.3 Blockchain Interfacing
EarthNodes feed validated data into the World Mobile Chain (WMC). They may trigger smart contracts, submit usage summaries, or update stake-related records. While they do not handle consensus, they provide the authenticated inputs the blockchain relies on to maintain transparency and accountability.
2.4 Service Execution
In addition to core operations, EarthNodes can run edge-level applications such as decentralized storage, VPN access, and compute services. These services are modular and deployed off-chain, allowing the network to evolve without requiring changes to the underlying infrastructure.
The system supports modular service deployment, enabling EarthNodes to adopt new features without altering the underlying infrastructure. This plug-in model allows for rapid integration of future telecom and data services as they are developed.
2.5 Governance and Policy Enforcement
EarthNodes participate in governance through voting systems and on-chain proposals. They may help decide protocol upgrades or service parameters. The node software can also enforce agreed rules automatically, such as minimum service levels or quality-of-service standards.
Coordination and Security Model
EarthNodes communicate over a secure peer-to-peer network using a gossip protocol built on libp2p. All traffic is encrypted and authenticated using mutual TLS certificates. Each node independently verifies the identity of its peers and the validity of messages received.
This mesh design removes the need for a central coordinator. EarthNodes automatically discover, trust, and communicate with each other, forming a resilient processing layer that scales horizontally and remains resistant to tampering or single points of failure.
3. EarthNodes and the World Mobile Chain
EarthNodes are the computational core of the World Mobile network. They process telecom workloads, run decentralized services, and serve as the primary source of verified data submitted to the World Mobile Chain (WMC). WMC, in turn, is the blockchain layer that records usage, payments, governance actions, and other network-critical data.
Together, EarthNodes and WMC form a parallel architecture: one layer handles high-frequency operations off-chain, while the other anchors verified results on-chain.
3.1 What is WMC?
The World Mobile Chain is an Ethereum-compatible Layer 3 blockchain built using Arbitrum technology. It functions as a custom optimistic rollup designed specifically for telecom. WMC settles to Base (Coinbase’s Layer 2), which in turn settles to Ethereum mainnet. This layered structure combines the security of Ethereum with the scalability of Base and the telecom-specific customization of WMC.
WMC records authenticated usage, manages identity and governance, and automates payments, all at telecom scale. It uses Arbitrum data availability to handle large volumes of telecom metadata efficiently, without congesting Ethereum’s base layer.
3.2 EarthNode Roles
EarthNodes interact with WMC in two distinct roles:
- On-chain interaction: EarthNodes communicate with World Mobile Chain. They trigger on-chain actions including usage summary submissions, session outcomes, and token-based transactions. They do not participate in block production or consensus on WMC.
- Off-chain processing: EarthNodes execute the telecom services layer. This includes validating user identity, authorizing sessions, calculating rewards, as well as providing additional edge services. These tasks are performed off-chain to maintain responsiveness.
EarthNodes batch and summarize verified usage data using cryptographic techniques like Merkle trees. These summaries are periodically submitted to WMC, anchoring the results immutably on-chain. The blockchain acts as a public ledger and enforcement mechanism; EarthNodes perform the real-time work that powers decentralized mobile infrastructure.
3.3 Why the Architecture Is Split
World Mobile separates the service and ledger layers to optimize for performance, scalability, and reliability. EarthNodes and WMC run in parallel, each with specialized responsibilities:
Performance
Telecom workloads require sub-second execution. EarthNodes process these off-chain, avoiding the latency and cost of direct on-chain settlement. Only aggregated proofs are submitted to WMC, keeping the chain lean and efficient.
Modularity
By running service logic off-chain, EarthNodes can be updated independently of the blockchain. New features or modules can be added without altering the ledger or triggering protocol-level upgrades. This modular approach minimizes friction and allows the system to evolve rapidly as demand and use cases grow.
Scalability
EarthNodes use P-RAFT, a custom off-chain consensus system optimized for telecom. It supports high-frequency validation, low-latency agreement, and distributed coordination across nodes.
P-RAFT enables EarthNodes to deterministically agree on session events, IPDR records, and service outcomes at scale. WMC anchors final settlement. EarthNodes handle scalable service logic through horizontal distribution.
Risk Isolation
By decoupling execution from consensus, failures in one layer do not cascade into the other. Bugs in an EarthNode module cannot compromise WMC. Likewise, congestion or downtime on WMC does not interrupt live telecom services. This separation increases fault tolerance and system resilience.
3.4 Division of Responsibilities
| Component | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| EarthNodes | Process telecom data, validate usage, manage decentralized services, initiate on-chain actions |
| WMC | Maintain economic state, execute smart contracts, store usage summaries, coordinate governance |
EarthNodes and WMC operate in parallel but depend on each other. EarthNodes generate the verified inputs WMC records; WMC provides the immutable ledger and incentive layer that validates EarthNode outputs.
This dual-layer model enables World Mobile to deliver carrier-grade telecom performance while preserving the trust guarantees of blockchain infrastructure.
4. Main Job: Validating the Data Layer (IPDRs)
One of the core responsibilities of EarthNodes is verifying network usage. In telecom, every call or data session generates logs. Phone calls produce Call Detail Records (CDRs); internet activity creates Internet Protocol Detail Records (IPDRs). These include metadata like timestamps, duration, volume, and the node involved.
In traditional networks, this data is stored in private systems with no external validation. In World Mobile’s decentralized architecture, EarthNodes verify these records and anchor them on-chain. This makes network usage tamper-evident, transparent, and independently auditable.
4.1 How the Data Moves
- Connection and access
A user connects to an AirNode. Their identity and balance are verified by an EarthNode before access is granted. - Session logging
As the session continues, the AirNode generates IPDR entries showing what data was used, when, and how much. These are split into public metadata and private, encrypted content accessible only to the user. - Regional aggregation
IPDRs are sent to an AetherNode. It aggregates records and builds a Merkle tree: a cryptographic structure that condenses the dataset into one hash. Any tampering changes the hash, making fraud detectable. - EarthNode verification
The Merkle root is distributed to EarthNodes through the Aether service. One EarthNode is selected as validator for that time window. Others verify the root, sign it, and share signatures. - Consensus and submission
If a supermajority agrees, the validator submits a signed attestation to the World Mobile Chain. This creates a permanent, on-chain record confirming that the data batch was verified. - Outcome
The system now holds an immutable proof of network usage. The raw IPDRs remain encrypted and off-chain. Users retain access to their data. The network gains integrity without central control.
4.2 Why This Matters
In conventional telecom networks, usage data is stored in closed systems with no external visibility. Users cannot access their records, and errors or fraud are difficult to detect or resolve.
World Mobile replaces this opaque model with decentralized verification. IPDRs are validated by independent EarthNodes, and a summary hash is recorded on-chain. Encrypted logs remain user-controlled and verifiable by anyone with access rights.
This removes the need to trust any one entity. The system proves itself.
4.3 How Validator Selection Works
Each batch of IPDRs is assigned to a validator EarthNode. This role may rotate or follow a random or stake-weighted selection method. The validator collects signatures from other EarthNodes to confirm the Merkle root.
Rules include:
- All EarthNodes verify the data independently.
- A supermajority must sign before submission.
- If consensus fails, the batch is rejected or flagged.
This ensures no single EarthNode can alter data unilaterally.
4.4 What’s Inside an IPDR
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Timestamp | Start and end time of a session |
| Data Volume | Total bytes sent and received |
| AirNode ID | Identifier of the AirNode used |
| Session Type | Type of activity (browsing, VoIP, streaming) |
| Destination Info | Encrypted data about services accessed |
| User ID Hash | Anonymous reference linked to the user’s DID |
Only the user can decrypt the private fields. EarthNodes process and validate metadata while preserving privacy.
5. Value-Added Services
Once EarthNodes are online and performing core tasks, they can start supporting additional services. These optional modules allow operators to earn extra rewards by contributing compute, bandwidth, or storage resources. Each service comes with its own requirements and payout model, and operators choose which to run based on their hardware and legal environment.
5.1 Decentralized VPN
EarthNodes can serve as VPN endpoints, routing encrypted traffic for privacy-focused users. Unlike centralized VPNs, no single party controls the system. Users select a region or node, and traffic is tunneled through participating EarthNodes.
Operators need sufficient bandwidth and CPU performance. Payments are handled via WMTX. World Mobile will integrate this directly into the user app, making the VPN available as a simple toggle.
Example:
A user in Kenya wants to access a UK-only streaming site. They open the World Mobile app, turn on the VPN, and select a UK-based EarthNode. Their traffic is securely routed through that node, giving them a UK IP address.
5.2 Decentralized Storage
EarthNodes with available disk space can contribute to a distributed storage layer. Encrypted user files or network data are stored in small, redundant fragments across multiple nodes.
Only users with the correct keys can access their data. Operators are paid in WMTX for storage capacity and uptime. Early use cases may include internal storage needs, expanding later to support third-party apps.
5.3 Compute and AI Services
EarthNodes with high-performance CPUs or GPUs can run compute-intensive tasks. These may include AI workloads such as spam filtering, language translation, customer support bots, or detecting anomalies in network activity.
Operators that meet the required hardware standards can opt in. Rewards are based on successful task execution, with jobs coming from either the World Mobile network or third-party applications.
5.4 Identity, Payments, and IoT
Additional services may include:
- Decentralized identity verification for external platforms
- Local crypto-to-fiat payment functions
- IoT data processing, such as summarizing sensor data at the edge
These services reflect World Mobile’s mission to localize infrastructure and serve emerging digital populations. With many users accessing the internet for the first time, the network enables tailored services in finance, identity, and education, built close to where they’re needed most.
5.5 Participation Model
Each service module includes:
- A software component to install
- Eligibility rules (hardware, location, legal)
- A defined reward structure
Operators can choose which services to support. For example, VPN endpoints may require legal compliance in the operator’s country. Storage might require high-availability disks. AI modules may require GPUs.
The system is modular by design. Operators can specialize or diversify based on their resources and local conditions.
5.6 User Integration
For users, these services are built into the World Mobile app or made available through developer APIs. Features like VPN routing or file storage work seamlessly in the background. EarthNodes perform the backend processing and earn rewards based on actual usage.
5.7 A Distributed Service Layer
Over time, EarthNodes will support multiple services at once. A single node could:
- Validate network usage
- Route VPN traffic
- Store encrypted data
- Run AI tasks
Together, these form a decentralized cloud built on community-run infrastructure. Services run closer to users, without centralized infrastructure, and revenue flows directly to operators.
This is the long-term goal: EarthNodes as a modular service layer powering telecom, digital services, and Web3 applications from the edge.
6.1 Current Status
| Area | Description | Progress |
|---|---|---|
| Live Developer Mainnet | EarthNodes are submitting verified usage data to the World Mobile Chain in controlled environments. |  In Progress |
| EarthNode Authentication | On-chain system allows nodes to prove ownership and join the network securely. |  Implemented |
| High Availability Setup | Redundant controllers ensure backup services can take over automatically. | Implemented |
| Security and Audits | Ongoing code reviews, testing, and hardware protection planning (e.g., TPMs, HSMs). | In Progress |
| Reputation System | Nodes will earn scores based on uptime, honesty, and performance. |  In development |
| P-RAFT Consensus | Fast off-chain coordination system deployed in basic form. | In development |
| EarthNode Governance | EarthDAO will let ENNFT holders vote on upgrades and policies. | In planning |
6.2 What’s Next
| Milestone | Description | Progress |
|---|---|---|
| Public Mainnet Launch | Mainnet will open to all builders. Full EarthNode rewards to begin post-launch. |  Planned Q3 2025 |
| Transition to EarthNode Staking | Core staking will shift to delegated EarthNode staking after the network goes live. | In development |
| Decentralized VPN | First optional module expected to launch. Users will route traffic through EarthNodes. | In development |
| Storage and Compute Modules | EarthNodes will support encrypted file storage and AI compute services. | In development |
| Third-Party Developer Support | APIs and service hooks will allow community developers to launch their own modules. | In planning |
7. Get Involved: EarthNode Staking
You don’t need to run an EarthNode to participate in the network. By staking your WMTx tokens, you can help support operations and earn rewards.
There are two ways to stake:
- Core staking lets you lock your tokens for a fixed period and receive a predictable return. It’s simple and doesn’t involve choosing a specific node.
- EarthNode staking allows you to delegate your tokens to a specific EarthNode. This increases that node’s reward share, and in return, the operator shares a portion of earnings with you.
Core staking is available today. Once the EarthNode network is live, delegated staking will replace Core staking.
7.1 How to Stake
Anyone with WMTx tokens can stake. You don’t need technical experience, just a supported wallet and a few minutes.
Follow the full step-by-step guide here:
How to Stake WMTx Tokens and Earn Passive Income
The guide covers:
- Setting up a wallet (Cardano or Base)
- Using the Vault staking platform
- How to delegate, unstake, and claim rewards
- Managing your stake over time
If you need help, check the FAQs in the guide or visit the help section at worldmobile.club/help.
7.2 How Are Rewards Calculated?
EarthNode rewards come from multiple sources. Delegators (stakers) earn a share of these rewards, minus a small commission set by the EarthNode operator. The exact reward calculations are still being finalized, but here’s what is known:
1. Token Rewards (Inflation)
Each epoch, new WMTx tokens are minted and distributed across EarthNodes and their stakers. This is a common bootstrapping mechanism in blockchain networks. In the early phases, yields may be higher to encourage participation. Over time, the inflation rate will decrease as the network grows. Rewards are allocated based on stake weight and node performance.
2. Network Usage Fees
Whenever users access the network, such as buying data or making calls, a portion of the fees is distributed to EarthNodes. These are real, usage-based earnings. Nodes that contribute more to validating and processing activity earn a larger share. As real-world usage grows through offerings like the USA phone plans, these fees are expected to become the primary source of EarthNode rewards.
3. Service Rewards
EarthNodes that opt in to provide additional services, like VPN or decentralized storage, earn rewards based on how much those services are used. For example, a VPN node may receive WMTx per gigabyte of relayed data. These rewards vary depending on demand and are only available to nodes that meet the service requirements.
4. Performance and Uptime
Rewards are tied to reliability. If a node goes offline or fails to complete validation tasks, its rewards for that epoch are reduced. There is no slashing of stake, but underperformance leads to lower earnings. High uptime and responsiveness are essential for maximizing rewards.
5. Delegation and Operator Fee
Each EarthNode sets a commission fee, which is taken from its total rewards. The remaining amount is distributed to all stakers in proportion to their delegation. Operators may adjust fees to attract more delegation or to remain competitive with other nodes.
Final reward parameters will be outlined in the official EarthNode Staking documentation. The structure above is confirmed, but specific rates and thresholds are still to be announced.
7.3 List of EarthNodes and Transparency
World Mobile is building the EarthNode ecosystem to be transparent and community-driven. As a delegator or user, you’ll be able to see which EarthNodes are active, how they perform, and what services they provide.
Visibility Through the Vault and Explorer
The Vault and blockchain explorer will list all registered EarthNodes. Each node has a unique ID and may also include a name set by the operator. Key stats include:
- Total stake (operator vs. delegators)
- Uptime and performance history
- Reputation score
- Enabled services
This lets delegators compare nodes and make informed choices.
Performance and Reputation
World Mobile is developing dashboards and monitoring tools to track node behavior. Metrics may include participation in consensus, validation success rate, response times, and service availability. Underperforming nodes will have visible performance drops, which affect rewards and delegation interest.
Community Monitoring
Outside official tools, the community is expected to publish third-party dashboards, rankings, or performance summaries.
We invite EarthNode operators to reply to this article with their setup and performance. We’ll start compiling a list of public EarthNode profiles in that thread.
Public EarthNode Directory (Community-Contributed)
| EN ID | TICKERS | EarthNode Operator | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1, 127, 174, 177, 241, 281, 344, 378, 438, 488, 506, 508, 548, 560, 643, 954 | ESPRSO, DOPPIO, MOCHA, LATTE, AFFO, CORTO, CAPUC, AMERIC, BREVE, LUNGO, FLATW, MACCHI, COLD, NITRO, RISTRO, DECAF | Coffee | Stake with Club |
| 228, 281, 363, 976 | KMCHI, GIMBA, SOJU, PIZZA | Kimchi | Stake with Kimchi |
ENOs: Submit your node by replying with your EN ID, Ticker, Name, and Website link. We’ll update this table regularly.
EarthNodes are the backbone of World Mobile’s decentralized network: a blend of telecom infrastructure and blockchain technology. Instead of relying on centralized servers, EarthNodes validate data, provide services, and earn rewards, all run by the community. They represent a real-world use case of decentralized infrastructure (DePIN), with clear roles, incentives, and transparency. Whether you’re an operator or a staker, EarthNodes offer a way to actively support and help build a fairer, user-owned mobile network.