NodeGuide / Optional reference / Peer Connections
Peer Connections Reference Guide
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Quick definitions appear when you tap technical terms during setup. This optional guide gives you more help with setup, settings, and troubleshooting.
Safety wording reviewed September 23, 2026. Reference instructions may differ by device, app and installed software version; NodeGuide does not detect your version. Check the current official instructions before making a change.
Why nodes connect to multiple peers
Your node connects to several other Bitcoin nodes so it can receive and share Bitcoin information. Having multiple peer connections helps keep your node connected even if one connection stops working.
Incoming vs outgoing node connections
Outgoing connections are connections your node starts. Incoming connections are connections other Bitcoin nodes start with your node. Your node can still work with outgoing connections only.
Peer count and node health
A healthy node usually keeps several peer connections. The exact number can change over time, so small changes are normal.
Peer timeouts and bans
Your node may temporarily disconnect from or block another node if it stops responding or behaves incorrectly. Most beginners do not need to change these settings.
Maximum number of node connections
This setting controls how many peer connections your node can have at one time. Most beginners can leave the default setting unchanged.
Why peer locations can look unusual
The location shown for another Bitcoin node is only an estimate. Tor and other privacy networks can make the location appear different from where the node really is.
Common peer-connection troubleshooting
If other Bitcoin nodes are not connecting, first check your internet connection and make sure your node is running. Restart only if needed, then give it a little time to reconnect.