Question 1

How do I set up a basic Lightning node using Rust-Lightning?

Accepted Answer

Start by integrating the core `lightning` crate and implementing required traits for storage, chain sync, and networking. Use sample crates like `lightning-net-tokio` for networking or refer to LDK-sample for a complete example, but expect to write significant integration code for a full node.

Question 2

Rust-Lightning vs LND: which is better for custom integrations?

Accepted Answer

Rust-Lightning offers more flexibility as a library, allowing deep customization of backends, while LND is a full node with more out-of-the-box features but less modularity. Choose Rust-Lightning if you need to integrate with existing systems or have unique requirements like custom storage.

Question 3

Can Rust-Lightning be used in mobile applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes, especially with the `lightning-rapid-gossip-sync` crate designed for mobile clients. However, you'll need to handle platform-specific networking and storage, which may require additional Rust FFI or language bindings for smooth integration.

Question 4

What's the best way to handle channel persistence with Rust-Lightning?

Accepted Answer

Use the `lightning-persister` crate for a simple implementation, or implement the `Persist` trait to serialize channel state to any backend like a database or cloud storage. The README emphasizes that persistence is crucial to avoid fund loss, but it's up to you to choose the storage method.

Question 5

How does Rust-Lightning integrate with hardware wallets?

Accepted Answer

It supports custom signing APIs via the `Signer` trait, allowing you to provide private keys from hardware wallets. You can implement this to delegate signing operations, enabling secure key management without exposing secrets, as noted in the About section.

Question 6

Is Rust-Lightning suitable for building Discreet Log Contracts (DLCs)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, utilities in `chan_utils` are designed for non-LN Bitcoin applications like DLCs. It provides cryptographic and state machine logic, but you'll need to build the contract layer on top, as mentioned in the README's About section.

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