> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://geodb.gitbook.io/odin-protocol/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://geodb.gitbook.io/odin-protocol/before-getting-started/running-an-odin-node-in-the-cloud.md).

# Running an ODIN Node in the Cloud

You may prefer to employ a virtual private server (VPS) from one of the major cloud providers. VPSs offer a handful of possible benefits over a PC or SOHO server, such as reliability and scalability. If you opt to use a VPS, here is the recommended configuration:

* 2 vCPUs
* 4 GB memory
* 20 GB storage space
* Debian 10 (Buster) 

After initializing the instance, there are a few basic steps to setting up Docker, which we've included here for convenience:

1. Update the system. `sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade`
2. Install prerequisite software. `sudo apt install git docker docker-compose`
3. Enable the docker service within systemd. `sudo systemctl enable docker`. 
4. Add your user to the docker group. `sudo usermod -aG docker $USER` Make sure to log out and back in for this change to apply.

Once you've completed these steps, you are ready to get into the instructions below.