# Running an Aleph Node on Testnet

In order to participate in the Aleph protocol as a validator, the first thing you need is a running Aleph Node. Note that this is very different from just having a wallet, which is a tool for interacting with the network but does not constitute a part of it.

For validators, the node will have to keep running reliably at all times, so please make sure you have enough willpower and resources to facilitate that.

Next sections of this guide will walk you through downloading, running and customizing your node, using our handy Aleph Node Runner repository. If you wish to use other methods, please consult the [Building from source section](/aleph-zero/use/validate/running-an-aleph-node-on-testnet/building-and-running-from-source-advanced/building-from-source.md).


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