Bitcoin: Very slow sync using bitcoin core on Mac mini m1

Slow synchronization speed: understanding of Bitcoin in Mac Mini M1 with 8 GB of RAM and High Memory

As a user of popular bitcoin cryptocurrencies, you are probably not a stranger to the concept of decentralization and point to point transactions. However, when it comes to synchronization of the bitcoin portfolio on a computer or device, there may be problems that may decrease your progress. In this article, we go deeper into one of these problems: very slow synchronization speeds using the Bitcoin nucleus in the 8 GB RAM Mac Mini M1 and high memory capacity.

Environmental configuration

To start solving problems, first set the setting:

• You run MacOS Monterey (M1) in the MAC 2020 or more recent.

• Your wallet is configured with 8 GB of memory and 256 GB of internal SSD as the main memory device.

• You installed Bitcoin Core Version 21.2.3.

Observations

After two weeks of synchronization, you have a satisfactory completion rate of 60%. However, the process lasted much more than expected:

• The average Mac Mini M1 synchronization speed is about 5-7 seconds per block.

• Blocks are transferred from local memory to the cloud at this speed.

Potential causes

Based on our observations and research, here are some potential causes of slow synchronization speeds using the Bitcoin nucleus on the Mac Mini M1 for 8 GB of RAM and high storage capacity:

* Storage fragmentation

: Over time, the memory device can be crushed, causing block storage in various locations in the unit. This can lead to slower synchronization times when the wallet tries to recover and save data from various parts of the unit.

* Block cache management : Bitcoin Core uses the block cache to improve performance during synchronization. However, if the memory device is not optimized for buffer or if the cache size is too small, it may cause delays in downloading blocks.

Steps to solve problems

To optimize synchronization printing and reduce low speeds:

• Bitcoin core update : Make sure it is releasing the latest version of Bitcoin Core (21.2.3 or more recent).

• Optimize memory : Consider the update to a faster memory device such as SSD if possible.

• Reduce block cache size : If the memory device is not optimized for buffer, try to reduce the block cache size in bitcoin core configurations.

Application

Although Bitcoin synchronization in the 8 GB RAM Mac Mini M1 and high storage capacity may be difficult due to slow synchronization speed, you can take measurements to optimize the process. Understanding potential causes and implementing the steps to solve problems, you can improve the overall synchronization experience and reduce delays in sending local memory blocks to the cloud.

Recommendations

To improve your bitcoin synchronization experience even more:

• Check regularly the progress of your portfolio and adjust the settings if necessary.

• If possible, consider the update to a faster memory device.

• Monitor the size of the block cache and adapt it as needed.