Newbie question: Why is having a masternode important? Of what benefit is it?
Masternodes - fully synchronized wallets that are connected to the network 24/7. Their function is to serve the network - from conducting transactions to additional services, such as providing complete anonymity of transactions (transactions are NOT recorded in a block system, for example, in Dash), etc. depending on the technology of individual master codes. Since the masterwindows are in fact partially performing the work of the transaction processing miners, they take a part of the found coins in the new block to themselves, thus dividing the profits with the miners.
As a rule, in order to become a masternode you need:
1) Completely be synchronized with the network of blocking.
2) Your wallet matched certain parameters. For example, included 24/7, there was a powerful computer and other technical issues.
3) Have on the purse a certain number of coins.