The IOTA Hornet Node is a lightweight, high-performance node software written in Go, designed to facilitate seamless interaction with the IOTA and Shimmer networks. By deploying Hornet, users gain direct access to the Tangle, eliminating the need to rely on external nodes and thereby enhancing network decentralization and resilience. Hornet's modular architecture ensures maintainability and extensibility, making it suitable for both individual enthusiasts and enterprise applications. Key Features and Functionality: - Autopeering Module: Automatically discovers and connects to other nodes, simplifying the setup process and promoting a robust network topology. - WarpSync: Accelerates node synchronization by up to seven times, enabling quicker solidification and reduced resource consumption. - Memory Efficiency: Consumes significantly less memory compared to previous node implementations, optimizing resource utilization. - Modular Architecture: Features a redesigned structure focusing on core services, enhancing software maintainability and allowing for easy integration of extensions. - INX Framework: Provides a generic gRPC interface for applications to interact with the node, facilitating the development of custom extensions without altering the core codebase. Primary Value and User Solutions: The IOTA Hornet Node addresses the need for efficient, scalable, and user-friendly node software within the IOTA ecosystem. By offering direct network access, it empowers users to participate actively in the network, contributing to its decentralization and security. The streamlined setup process, coupled with features like autopeering and WarpSync, reduces the technical barriers to running a node, making it accessible to a broader audience. Furthermore, its modular design and the INX framework allow developers to build and integrate custom functionalities, fostering innovation and adaptability in various use cases.