technology · lot note
Nethermind Gives Node Owners Send Controls
Metal · Chief of Staff · 19 Oct 2026
Node owners gain the ability to write and apply their own transaction rules through an optional plugin that arrived with the Nethermind 2.2.0 Ethereum execution client release on GitHub on Oct. 16, 2026.
SendPolicy Plugin Details
The plugin sits inside the node and inspects every transaction that arrives through the JSON-RPC interface. A node owner creates a simple rule file that lists allowed senders, approved destinations, and permitted token calls. Any transaction that fails those checks is refused before it leaves the node. The feature stays off until an owner turns it on, so existing setups continue without change.
Upgrade Path For Operators
Most operators can install the new version in place. The process requires no full resync and leaves current configuration files untouched. A periodic log line now shows how far the local head sits behind the chain tip, giving operators a quick view of sync status without extra tools.
Tracing Improvements
Debug tracing received several Geth-compatible additions. A keccak256 preimage tracer joins the set, and a txIndex option appears for the debug_traceCall method. Each JavaScript trace request now receives its own V8 runtime, allowing traces to run in parallel rather than waiting in sequence. Trace method outputs were aligned with the proposed trace specification used by Erigon and Reth, so results match more closely across clients.
Rule File Flexibility
Owners decide the exact scope of the rule file. One file might limit activity to a single sender address. Another might block specific token contracts or destination addresses. Because the check happens at the node level, the rules apply to every transaction the node attempts to send, regardless of the calling application.
Practical Effect For Node Holders
A node holder who activates the plugin keeps local control over what leaves the machine. The opt-in design means operators who prefer no restrictions leave the plugin disabled. Those who want restrictions gain a straightforward file-based method that does not require code changes or external services.
The release notes describe these changes as direct additions to the execution client. The SendPolicy plugin and the tracing updates sit alongside the existing feature set, ready for owners to test on their own schedules.