In the Flow blockchain network, there are several types of nodes that play different roles in maintaining the network's operations. These nodes include:

Validator Nodes: Validator nodes are responsible for validating and confirming transactions, as well as participating in the consensus process to reach agreement on the state of the blockchain.
Collection Nodes: Collection nodes store and maintain a complete copy of the blockchain's transaction history. They serve as a source of truth for archival purposes and facilitate historical data retrieval.
Execution Nodes: Execution nodes execute smart contracts and process transactions on the Flow blockchain. They are responsible for executing the code and updating the state of the blockchain accordingly.
Consensus Nodes: Consensus nodes participate in the consensus algorithm to agree on the order of transactions and maintain the integrity of the blockchain. They collectively decide on the validity of blocks and ensure the overall security of the network.
Gateway Nodes: Gateway nodes act as entry points for external applications and services to interact with the Flow blockchain. They handle the communication and data exchange between the external world and the blockchain network.

Each type of node performs a specific function and contributes to the overall operation and security of the Flow blockchain network.

FLOW: Network Dynamics and Staking Patterns