C-Lightning (Core-Lightning)
Core-Lightning (CLN, often called c-lightning) is a lightweight, modular Lightning Network implementation. It is notable for early support of Bolt 12, which enables static Lightning offers for automated recurring payments.
Mining Use Case: Bolt 12 Payouts
Traditional Lightning invoices are single-use and require an inbound request. Bolt 12 introduces "offers"—a reusable QR code or string that a payer can hit anytime to initiate a payment.
Setup for Mining Payouts
- Run CLN on StartOS or your own Linux node
- Enable the
experimental-offersplugin (now merged in recent CLN releases) - Generate a Bolt 12 offer:
lightning-cli offer [amount] "Mining payout" - Import the offer string into Ocean.xyz dashboard
- Ocean pays out automatically to your Lightning node when threshold is met
Advantages Over On-Chain Payouts
- Privacy — no address reuse, no on-chain footprint per payout
- Speed — sub-second settlement vs. block confirmation times
- Low fees — negligible for frequent small payouts
- Self-custody — funds arrive in your own node, not a custodial wallet
Comparison of Lightning Implementations
| Implementation | Bolt 12 | Notable For |
|---|---|---|
| Core-Lightning | Yes (native) | Modularity, scripting hooks |
| LND | Partial / experimental | Broader ecosystem, Loop/Pool |
| Eclair | Partial | Scala-based, ACINQ focus |
| LDK | Yes (library) | Embedded / mobile wallets |
Related
- StartOS — home server OS that packages CLN
- Ocean.xyz — mining pool supporting Bolt 12 payouts
- Bitcoin Knots — base layer node CLN depends on
References
- Meetup #30: Decentralized Mining Workshop ^[raw/decentralized-mining-workshop-meetup-30.md]