Frontiersmen and Kharaa are drawing from the same resources. Controlling resources (as discussed in the next section) is critical. The only way to do this is to capture resource nodes, and prevent the Kharaa from using them. Each resource node connects to a supply of raw nano sludge. This sludge is converted into resource points, that can then be spent by the commander to create every weapon, structure, and provision the squad will need, and to purchase all upgrades and research.

Without any towers, resources will trickle slowly in through the command network. With every active resource tower, this trickles increases. Keeping pace with alien growth requires controlling as many, or more, resource nodes as they do. Next to structures like the command console and infantry portal, they are the most vital structures to defend.