Consensus – Consensus Client vs Execution Client: Key Differences

clientsconsensusnodessynchronizationtransactions

Since the merge, the execution client (such as Geth) is insufficient to run full-node on Ethereum. You also need Consensus Client (such as a lighthouse).

Whats the difference between them? Which one is syncing the ethereum state? Which one is receiving the Ethereum transactions?

Best Answer

The Execution Client listens and executes transactions and maintains the latest state and database of all Ethereum data, while the Consensus Client provides consensus (using PoS algorithm) from validated data from the Execution Client. These two clients work together to sync the Ethereum state. The Execution Client is receiving Ethereum transactions.

See: https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs/nodes-and-clients/