First-Time Setup

After installing epress node, complete these steps to configure your node and start publishing. Open http://localhost:8543 in your browser to begin.

Installation Wizard

When you first open your node, you will be redirected to the installation wizard automatically.

Choose your database (SQLite is simplest for local use)
Set your node URL (for public access, use your domain)
Create your admin account

Connect Ethereum Wallet

Your Ethereum wallet serves as your cryptographic identity on epress world. This enables signed publishing and cross-node verification.

Why Wallet Required

Identity: Your wallet address uniquely identifies you across all epress nodes
Signing: Sign content with your private key to prove authorship
Verification: Other nodes verify your signature to confirm authenticity

MetaMask Setup Guide

Install MetaMask from metamask.io or your browser extension store
Create a new wallet or import an existing one
Important: Back up your 12-word seed phrase securely. Never share it.
Fund your wallet with a small amount of ETH on any network (gas fees are minimal)

Connect Flow

Click "Connect Wallet" in your node settings
MetaMask will prompt you to sign a message (not a transaction)
No gas fees: This is a signature only, not an on-chain transaction
Your wallet address is now linked to your node identity

Other Wallet Options

epress supports any wallet that implements the WalletConnect standard, including Rainbow, Coinbase Wallet, Trust Wallet, and more.

Basic Configuration

Title: Set your node name (displayed to other nodes)
Avatar: Upload an image for your node identity
Bio: Write a short description of your node

First Publication

Create your first post and understand the publishing options.

Local Publish

Content stored only on your node. Not visible to other nodes until signed.

Good for drafts and private content

Signed Publish

Content signed with your wallet. Visible to nodes that follow you.

Required for public distribution

Follow Other Nodes

Following nodes establishes relationships and brings their signed content into your timeline.

Visit a node URL and click "Follow" to initiate the handshake
The other node will verify your signature and establish the relationship
Their signed publications will appear in your timeline

Continue to Usage Guide View FAQ