> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://zel.gitbook.io/zelnodes/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://zel.gitbook.io/zelnodes/unlocking-a-zelnode.md).

# Unlocking a ZelNode

Step 1 - (Optional) Log into your VPS/server, shut down the daemon, and shut down your VPS/server

```
sudo systemctl stop zelcash
zelcashd stop
sudo shutdown -h now
```

Step 2 - With your full node wallet closed, navigate to the zelnode.conf file

* **Windows:**`C:\Users\YOURUSERNAME\AppData\Roaming\Zelcash`
* **MacOS:** `~/Library/Application Support/zelcash`
* **Linux:** `~/.zelcash/`

Step 3 - Find the ZelNode you wish to shut down and put a hash character in front of the entire line

{% hint style="info" %}
Hash character is SHIFT + 3

Looks like '#' without the quotes
{% endhint %}

Step 4 - Open your full node wallet and allow the wallet to fully sync.

Step 5 - Your collateral should now show as spendable in your wallet.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Reminder:** If you are shutting down your ZelNode for good, remember to stop your VPS service so you don't keep paying the monthly fee.
{% endhint %}