## Obsolete XRPL Nodes: 45% of the Network at Risk of Automatic Exclusion

A critical situation is emerging within the XRP Ledger. According to CryptoBasic data, about 45% of the network nodes continue to run outdated versions of the rippled software, prior to version 2.6.2. This is not just a technical delay but a real threat to the stability of the entire decentralized infrastructure. When the network activates new amendments—updates to consensus rules—these incompatible nodes will be automatically excluded from the peer-to-peer network.

### How the consensus mechanism works and why updates are critical

The XRP Ledger relies on a consensus protocol that requires validators to agree on the state of the distributed ledger. Every time a new amendment is activated, the network introduces new validation rules. Nodes running outdated software cannot interpret or validate transactions according to these new parameters. To protect the integrity of consensus, the network implements an automatic mechanism that excludes these incompatible nodes. The main causes of this accumulation of obsolete versions are neglect by operators, the absence of automated update processes, and underestimating the criticality of intervention.

### What operators must do immediately: concrete steps for updating

Interested XRPL node operators must immediately update to rippled version 2.6.2 or higher. This version includes critical bug fixes, performance optimizations, and support for the latest network amendments. The operational process involves precise phases: first, verify the current version running on your server using the server_info command via CLI or node API, checking the "build_version" field in the response. Next, carefully follow the official RippleX guides available on the developer portal. If possible, test the update in a staging environment to ensure compatibility with existing infrastructure. Finally, plan a maintenance window to perform the update without critical interruptions. Delaying this action risks compromising the node’s functionality and its contribution to the network.

### How to set up an XRPL node: basics for beginners

For those wanting to understand the basic structure, an XRPL node is a server running the rippled software that actively participates in the XRP Ledger network. Each node maintains a copy of the distributed ledger, forwards transactions to the network, and if configured as a validator, contributes to the consensus process. To build your own node, you need a server with adequate computational resources, install the rippled software from the official source, and synchronize the ledger. Basic configuration requires initial setup time but guarantees direct participation in the network.

### Consequences of inaction: what happens to outdated nodes

If operators do not proceed with the update, the consequences are automatic and irreversible in the short term. Once the network activates a new amendment, any node running incompatible software will be excluded from the peer-to-peer network. This exclusion causes a cascade effect: the node loses the ability to propose, validate, and forward transactions; the overall infrastructure suffers a decline in overall health, with potential reduction in decentralization and fault tolerance; services relying on that node for data or transaction transmission experience operational disruptions; the diversification of nodes decreases, potentially increasing the network’s vulnerability to coordinated attacks. This is not a theoretical scenario—it is an integrated safeguard mechanism that will activate automatically without warning.

### Impact on the community and XRP holders

Although the issue directly concerns node operators, its effects propagate throughout the entire community. For XRP wallet users, the impact is not immediate, but if a significant percentage of nodes are excluded, the overall network performance could slow down and robustness decrease. A less decentralized and diversified network becomes theoretically more vulnerable, indirectly affecting the experience of all users.

### Long-term prevention strategies

This situation highlights the importance of shared responsibility in managing decentralized infrastructures. Beyond immediate updates, operators should implement preventive measures: subscribe to official XRPL development channels and follow GitHub repositories for automatic notifications of new releases; where possible, automate update processes to apply security patches and critical updates; actively participate in the community, helping other operators with the update process. Proactive maintenance is significantly easier than emergency management after an unexpected exclusion.

### Frequently Asked Questions for Node Operators

**How do I check my rippled software version?** Use the server_info command via command line or node API. The response will include the "build_version" field with the current version.

**Is there a specific deadline for the update?** There is no fixed date, but the risk activates immediately upon the activation of a new amendment. The update should be considered urgent to prevent unexpected disconnections.

**If I lack sufficient technical skills, what are the alternatives?** Consult XRPL community forums, contact official RippleX resources, or consider using managed node services from trusted providers.

**Can an excluded node be restored?** Yes. Once the software is updated to a compatible version (2.6.2 or higher), the node can be restarted and will automatically reconnect to the network.

### A coordinated call to action

The message is unequivocal: the stability of the XRP Ledger depends on the collective diligence of its operators. With 45% of nodes currently vulnerable, a coordinated update effort is not just recommended—it is essential to ensure the security and performance of the network. By quickly updating to rippled 2.6.2, operators secure their role in the network and contribute to a stronger, more resilient, and more decentralized XRP Ledger for the entire community. Do not wait for disconnection to occur—update immediately.