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🪿 Aztec - Run a Node

🪿 Aztec Sepolia Sequencer: Privacy first Layer 2 on Ethereum, Built for Home & Solo Stakers​

Welcome to the Aztec Sequencer Node Plugin, a seamless integration for EthPillar designed to empower individuals and small operators to run an Aztec Layer 2 node with ease, security, and full control. Whether you're an Ethereum enthusiast, a solo staker, or a privacy advocate—this plugin gives you everything you need to participate in the Aztec network's testnet and beyond.

EthPillar + Aztec is cool

🚀 Key Features​

  • Automated Setup & Configuration
    Simple install scripts to set up Docker, dependencies, and fetch the latest Aztec node client. Edit your .env and you're ready to launch.

  • Health Checks & Troubleshooting
    Built-in menu and scripts verify node health, RPC connectivity, disk usage, and environment configuration. Clear error messages and guided troubleshooting help ensure smooth operation.

  • Validator Registration & Role Claiming
    Step-by-step instructions and menu screens guide you through validator setup, ZKPassport humanity verification, and role upgrades (e.g., Guardian role).

  • Security Hardening

    • Runs as a non-root user (rootless Docker)
    • Drops all unnecessary Linux capabilities, only allows essential networking
    • Enforces strict memory limits and log rotation
    • Uses no-new-privileges to prevent escalation
    • Containerized for isolation and control

  • Logging & Monitoring
    Integrated with EthPillar’s logging tools. Real-time logs, resource usage, and error reporting for proactive node management.

  • Backup & Recovery
    Easy validator key backup options and portable configuration for migration or disaster recovery.

🛡️ Why Choose Aztec Plugin for EthPillar?​

  • Privacy-First: Participate in Aztec’s zero-knowledge-powered Layer 2, prioritizing privacy for every transaction.
  • Community & Support: Direct access to the vibrant Aztec and EthPillar communities for troubleshooting, updates, and collaboration (Discord, EthPillar Discord).
  • Solo Staker Friendly: Designed for individuals—no enterprise hardware or expertise required.
  • Open Source & Transparent: Auditable scripts and configurations. Fork, contribute, or customize to your needs.

⚡ Requirements: What you'll need​

  • Operating System: Ubuntu Server or Desktop 24.04.3 LTS (or newer)
  • Disk
    • Remote RPC: 100GB NVMe SDD for Aztec Node
    • Local RPC: 850GB+ for Full Node Setup (execution L1 RPC + consensus beacon RPC + aztec L2)
  • Hardware: 2 core / 4 vCPU, 16GB RAM, 25 Mbps network connection
  • Validator Funding: At least 0.0001 SepoliaETH for testnet validator registration

📦 Quick Start​

  1. Open a terminal window from anywhere by typing Ctrl+Alt+T.

To install, paste the following:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/coincashew/EthPillar/main/install.sh)"
  1. Launch EthPillar. Type the following:
ethpillar
  1. Use the down arrow keys to select, then press OK: - Aztec L2 Sequencer
Aztec Node Config
tip

Docker will install if missing. You may need to log out and log in again. Type "ethpillar" again to resume install.

  1. Select LOCAL or REMOTE RPC
Aztec Selecing RPC Local or Remote

If REMOTE, provide your BEACON and ETH RPC URLs

Aztec Enter RPC

If LOCAL, ethpillar will install a Nimbus+Nethermind full node.

  • Select Sepolia as network
  • Answer Yes to start syncing now
  • Answer Yes to autostart when system boots up
  • Nimbus+Nethermind full node will require 2+hrs to sync on a system with fast NVME ssd drives
  1. Congrats! aztec-sequencer is now installed.
Aztec Menu

⏭️ Next Steps:​

  1. Review .env configuration: Update values (i.e. your ETH addresses/keys) if desired

  2. Start aztec-sequencer: Ensure Sepolia Full Node is fully synced first! This can take at least a few hours. Run the Health Checks.

  3. Backup aztec validator key: Use the 🔐 menu option

Aztec Start

Port forwarding: Forward the p2p port (default: 40400) to your local node ip address. Configure in your router.

📚 Documentation & Resources​

🤝 Contributing​

We welcome PRs, feedback, and ideas!

📧 Need Help?​

Enjoy private sequencing and join the future of Ethereum privacy!