System Requirements

Everything you need to run Multibit Wallet on your computer

Hardware Requirements

Multibit is a desktop wallet that runs a full Bitcoin node. This means it uses more system resources than lightweight wallets, but you get direct verification and no reliance on third-party servers.

Before installing Multibit Wallet, ensure your system meets the requirements below. The wallet will download and verify the entire Bitcoin blockchain, which requires significant disk space and bandwidth.

Minimum vs Recommended

Choose the configuration that best fits your needs

Minimum Requirements

Basic setup to get started

Processor

Dual-core CPU 2.0 GHz

RAM

4 GB DDR3

Storage

500 GB HDD (7200 RPM)

Internet

10 Mbps broadband

Platform-Specific Requirements

What you need on each operating system

Windows

Supported Versions

Windows 10 (64-bit) or newer
Windows 11 recommended

Additional Requirements

  • .NET runtime
  • Up-to-date system updates
  • Any antivirus or built-in Defender

File System

NTFS recommended

macOS

Supported Versions

macOS 11 Big Sur or newer
macOS 14 Sonoma recommended

Additional Requirements

  • Apple Silicon or Intel processor
  • Command Line Tools installed
  • Gatekeeper enabled

File System

APFS recommended

Linux

Supported Distributions

Ubuntu 20.04+ / Debian 11+ / Fedora 35+ / Arch / Manjaro

Additional Requirements

  • Modern desktop environment
  • Standard system libraries
  • Up-to-date OpenSSL

File System

ext4, XFS, or Btrfs

Storage Requirements

Understanding disk space needs for full node operation

Blockchain Data

~500 GB
Current Size
~50-80 GB
Annual Growth
24-48 hrs
Initial Sync Time

The Bitcoin blockchain grows continuously as new blocks are added. Plan for at least 1 TB of storage to accommodate future growth and ensure smooth operation.

Storage Tips

  • Use SSD for significantly faster synchronization and operation
  • Consider pruning mode to reduce storage to ~10 GB (with trade-offs)
  • Regularly monitor available space to prevent sync failures
  • Keep at least 20% of drive capacity free for optimal performance

Storage Breakdown

Blockchain Data ~480 GB
Chainstate Database ~6 GB
Transaction Indexes ~8 GB
Wallet & Config ~100 MB

Network Requirements

Internet connection needs for running a full node

Bandwidth Usage

Initial Sync 500+ GB download
Daily Usage 5-10 GB per day
Upload Traffic 20-100 GB/month

Running a full node requires significant bandwidth, especially during initial synchronization. Ensure you have an unlimited data plan or sufficient allowance.

Connection Speed

Minimum Download 10 Mbps
Recommended Download 50+ Mbps
Upload Speed 5+ Mbps

Faster connections significantly reduce initial sync time and improve overall responsiveness. Upload speed is important for supporting other nodes.

Connection Stability

Uptime 24/7 recommended
Latency <200ms preferred
Peer Connections 8-125 peers

Stable internet connection ensures your node stays synchronized and can effectively relay transactions and blocks to the network.

Network Setup Tips

To get the best experience running Multibit as a full node, keep these in mind:

  • A stable internet connection helps your node stay in sync and support the network.
  • Allowing incoming connections (port 8333) lets other nodes connect to you
  • Firewalls or routers may need basic configuration for optimal connectivity.
  • If your internet provider restricts peer-to-peer traffic, connection speed may be affected.

Ready to run Multibit?

If your system meets these requirements, you are ready to run a full Bitcoin wallet on your own computer. Download Multibit and start syncing your node.

Download Wallet