LNbits x Spark: Self-Custodial Lightning Without the Node
LNbits integrates Spark as a default funding source across its SaaS platform, open-source software, and new LNbitsBox hardware device.
LNbits, one of the most widely used Lightning account management systems, has integrated Spark as a funding source. Spark is now a default backend for my.lnbits.com, the LNbits SaaS platform, and ships as a supported funding source in LNbitsBox: a new plug-and-play hardware device for running LNbits at home or in a business.
Why This Matters
LNbits has built one of the largest open-source ecosystems in Lightning. Developers, merchants, and communities use it to create wallets, point-of-sale terminals, tipping systems, and more. Until now, running LNbits required managing a full Lightning node: channels, liquidity, peers, backups. Spark removes that operational layer entirely.
With Spark as a funding source, LNbits users get self-custodial Lightning payments without running their own node. Setup is minimal. There are no channels to open, no liquidity to manage, no peers to monitor.
Three Ways to Run It
The integration is available across every way people use LNbits:
- SaaS: my.lnbits.com now offers Spark as a default funding source for hosted accounts.
- Self-hosted: The open-source Spark Sidecar daemon integrates directly with any LNbits installation.
- Hardware: LNbitsBox is a new dedicated device that ships with LNbits pre-installed and Spark as a supported funding source. Power it on, open a browser, and you're running self-custodial Lightning.
LNbitsBox
LNbitsBox is a dedicated hardware device built on NixOS for reproducible, secure operations. It comes pre-configured with LNbits, supports browser-based setup, scheduled backups, and remote access via clearnet or Tor. Beyond Spark, it also supports Phoenix and Ark as alternative funding sources.
The device is designed for home users running personal wallets, merchants accepting payments, event organizers managing multiple terminals, and developers who want Lightning APIs without maintaining infrastructure.
About LNbits
LNbits is a free and open-source Lightning account management system. It provides a modular platform for building Lightning-powered applications, supporting multiple funding sources including Core Lightning, LND, Phoenixd, Arkade, and now Spark. Learn more at lnbits.com.