Monero, like other cryptocurrencies, operates on a decentralized network of computers, often referred to as "nodes." These nodes work together to verify transactions and add them to the Monero blockchain, enhancing the overall security and integrity of the system. One way to participate in this network is by hosting your own node, typically on a server, which allows for greater control, increased privacy, and improved security. This essentially means becoming a part of the infrastructure that supports the Monero network, directly contributing to its decentralization and resilience. Operating your own Monero node on a server can confer a number of significant benefits, particularly in terms of the security of your transactions and the preservation of your privacy.