Nodes, miners, and the network structure are fundamental components of blockchain technology. A node is any device that participates in the blockchain network. Nodes can serve various functions, such as validating transactions, storing a copy of the blockchain, or relaying data across the network. Miners are a specific type of node that performs the crucial task of verifying and adding new transactions to the blockchain. They do this by solving complex cryptographic puzzles, a process known as mining. Once a miner successfully solves a puzzle, they add a new block of transactions to the blockchain, and in return, they are rewarded with cryptocurrency.

The network structure of a blockchain is decentralized, meaning there is no central authority or single point of control. Instead, all nodes in the network share the responsibility of maintaining the integrity of the blockchain. This decentralized structure ensures that the blockchain remains secure, transparent, and resistant to censorship or tampering. Each node in the network communicates with other nodes, forming a peer-to-peer network where data is continuously shared and verified. This structure not only enhances security but also provides a level of redundancy, as the data is distributed across all nodes in the network.