Hi everyone,

Just getting to know Monero for the first time. I've downloaded and the official GUI wallet and have created a full node wallet. Blockchain has fully synched without issue. I have a couple rookie questions:

1. Can I keep the node going even when my Windows 10 CPU is not running the GUI software? Just so I don't have to wait to synchronize when I open the wallet?
2. How can I configure my node so it is a public node new users can access? Does it need to be running 24/7 to be worth it?

I am using the advanced mode as well.

Thanks and looking forward to learning from you all 🙂