TLDR;
- The desktop version of n8n is no longer supported, so we'll be using the terminal for the setup.
- Prerequisite: Install Node.js from the official website.
- To run n8n, use the
npx n8ncommand. - Access n8n locally at
http://localhost:5678. - Be aware of downsides: local setup cannot accept webhooks/callbacks from other SaaS, won't restart if it fails, and your machine needs to be always on.
Introduction
Hi there, my tech-savvy friends! If you've been eyeing n8n and are wondering how to get it running on your machine, then you're in the right place. Today, we'll walk through the process of local n8n installation, step-by-step. But before we jump in, let's do a quick TL;DR.
A Quick Note: Why Local?
Before we dive into the n8n setup, it's important to note that n8n's desktop version is no longer supported. This means we have to use the terminal to run n8n these days. While this might sound intimidating if you're not familiar with the terminal, I promise you it's simpler than it sounds!
Step 1: Preparing Your Machine
To get n8n running on your machine, we first need to install Node.js. Head over to the official Node.js website and download the Node.js installer. It comes with an installation wizard, which makes the process incredibly straightforward, even for beginners.
Step 2: Running n8n
Once Node.js is installed, open your terminal. Type in npx n8n and hit Enter. Now, sit back and relax as n8n gets set up on your machine. The first run usually takes a little while, but subsequent runs are almost instantaneous.
Step 3: Accessing n8n Locally
If everything goes well, you should be able to access n8n at http://localhost:5678. Just open your favorite web browser and type in that address. Voila! You're now running n8n locally on your machine.
The Downsides of Running n8n Locally
While running n8n locally comes with its perks, there are some downsides to be aware of:
- Your local n8n setup cannot accept webhooks or callbacks from other SaaS platforms. This means you won't be able to integrate n8n with services like Stripe without additional setup.
- If your n8n installation fails for some reason, it won't automatically restart. This could disrupt your workflows.
- Your computer needs to be always on for n8n to run. If you turn off your machine, n8n goes off too.
Wrapping Up
And there you have it, my friends—a beginner-friendly guide to n8n installation on your local machine. Although running n8n locally comes with a few limitations, it's a great way to familiarize yourself with this powerful tool.
Whether you're a small business owner or a marketer looking to streamline your processes, n8n is a fantastic choice. Just remember: practice makes perfect. The more you use n8n, the more comfortable you'll get with its features and functionalities.
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