ElementsProject/lightning
Freec-lightning — a Lightning Network implementation in C
FreeFree tier
About ElementsProject/lightning
Core Lightning (CLN) is a lightweight, highly customizable, and specification-compliant implementation of the Lightning Network protocol, developed and maintained by Blockstream. Written in C, it has been in production use on Bitcoin mainnet since early 2018, powering the Blockstream Store. Core Lightning provides a JSON-RPC interface, supports HD wallet encryption, and can be installed via pre-compiled binaries, Docker, or source compilation. It requires a locally or remotely running bitcoind (version 25.0 or above) and works on Linux and macOS.
Key Features
Specification-compliant Lightning Network protocol implementation in C
Lightweight and highly customizable design
JSON-RPC interface for node management and automation
Supports opening channels, sending and receiving payments
HD wallet encryption for security
Partial pruning support for Bitcoin blockchain
Multiple installation methods: pre-compiled binaries, Docker, source compilation
Production-proven on Bitcoin mainnet since 2018
Community support via mailing list, Discord, Telegram, and IRC
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Specification compliant and standard-adhering implementation
- Lightweight and low resource footprint
- Highly customizable with extensive configuration options
- Proven production stability since early 2018
- Active development and strong community support
- Multiple installation methods for ease of deployment
- HD wallet encryption for enhanced security
Cons
- Requires a fully synced bitcoind instance (version 25.0+)
- Only supports Linux and macOS; no native Windows support
- Setup and configuration may require technical expertise
- Partial pruning support may not suit all users
- No graphical user interface; relies on CLI or JSON-RPC
Best For
Running a Lightning Network node for personal or commercial paymentsDeveloping Lightning Network applications and servicesExperimenting with Lightning Network on testnet or regtestBuilding scalable off-chain Bitcoin payment solutionsIntegrating Lightning payments into storefronts or platforms
FAQ
What is Core Lightning?
Core Lightning (CLN) is a lightweight, highly customizable, and specification-compliant implementation of the Lightning Network protocol, developed by Blockstream.
Does it work on mainnet?
Yes, Core Lightning has been in production use on Bitcoin mainnet since early 2018.
What are the prerequisites for running Core Lightning?
It requires a locally or remotely running bitcoind (version 25.0 or above) that is fully synced and relays transactions. It works on Linux and macOS.
How can I install Core Lightning?
Installation options include pre-compiled binaries from GitHub releases, Docker images, or compiling from source.
Is there a graphical user interface?
Core Lightning does not include a GUI; it is managed via command-line interface (CLI) or JSON-RPC API.
Does Core Lightning support testnet and regtest?
Yes, it supports testnet, testnet4, regtest, and mainnet.