Self-host n8n on a VPS
Open-source workflow automation with fair-code licensing.
Connect hundreds of services and automate the boring work with a visual editor — self-hosted, so your credentials and data never leave your server.
Why self-host n8n?
Automation tools see every credential you wire into them. Running n8n yourself means your API keys and the data flowing through workflows stay private.
How to install n8n
- 1
Provision a VPS
2 vCPU / 2 GB handles most personal and small-team automation.
- 2
Run it with Docker
The official image is the quickest, most reproducible route.
- 3
Attach a database
Point n8n at PostgreSQL for durable workflow and execution history.
- 4
Enable encryption and TLS
Set an encryption key and serve the editor over HTTPS.
- 5
Start building
Add a trigger, chain your services, and schedule it.
Practical tips
- Store the encryption key safely — you need it to decrypt saved credentials.
- Use queue mode with Redis and workers once executions get heavy.
- Version-control exported workflows so your automations are recoverable.
Frequently asked questions
- Is n8n free to self-host?
- The source is available under a fair-code licence and is free to self-host for your own use.
- Will my credentials be safe?
- They are encrypted at rest with your key and never leave your server.
- Can I automate anything?
- There are hundreds of integrations plus a generic HTTP node, so almost any API works.
Looking for something else? Popular alternatives include Node-RED, Huginn, Windmill — browse all app guides.