Automation is no longer optional—it’s essential. Whether you’re a developer, a small business owner, or a tech enthusiast, automating repetitive tasks can save hours and increase productivity. Enter n8n, a powerful open-source workflow automation tool that lets you connect apps, create custom workflows, and even integrate APIs—all without the limitations of traditional SaaS platforms.
But before you can start automating, you need to know how to install n8n. In this guide, we’ll walk you through four ways to get n8n running: using npm, Docker, Railway, and n8n Cloud. By the end, you’ll know exactly which installation method suits your workflow and skill level.
What is n8n?
If you’re new here, let’s quickly cover the basics. n8n (pronounced “n-eight-n”) is an extendable workflow automation platform. Unlike tools like Zapier or Make, n8n is open-source and self-hosted. This means you have full control over your data, unlimited workflow executions (if self-hosted), and the ability to create complex automations that fit your exact needs.
With n8n, you can:
- Automate tasks between apps like Google Sheets, Slack, Airtable, and Notion.
- Use custom API integrations with HTTP Request nodes.
- Build conditional workflows with “if/else” logic.
- Write JavaScript code directly inside workflows for advanced logic.
Whether you’re a beginner or a developer, n8n offers flexibility that scales with your projects.
Method 1: Installing n8n Using npm
Installing n8n via npm is the fastest way to get started on your local machine.
Prerequisites:
- Node.js version 18 or higher (Download Node.js)
- npm (bundled with Node.js)
- A terminal or command prompt
Steps:
- Open your terminal.
Install n8n globally:
npm install n8n -g
- Start n8n:
n8n - Open your browser and go to:
http://localhost:5678 - You’ll see the n8n editor ready for you to start building workflows.
✅ Best for: Local testing and experimentation.
Method 2: Installing n8n Using Docker
Docker is perfect if you want a production-ready setup without worrying about dependencies or local environment conflicts.
Prerequisites:
- Install Docker
Steps:
Pull the n8n image:
docker pull n8nio/n8n
- Run n8n in a container:
docker run -it –rm -p 5678:5678 n8nio/n8n - Open your browser:
http://localhost:5678 - Optional: To persist data, mount a volume:
docker run -it –rm -p 5678:5678 -v ~/.n8n:/home/node/.n8n n8nio/n8n
✅ Best for: Developers and teams who need a scalable, consistent environment.
Method 3: Installing n8n on Railway
If you want cloud hosting without server management, Railway offers a free and easy solution. For detailed guide, refer to N8N Hosting on Railway
Steps:
- Sign up at Railway.
- Create a new project and choose Deploy from GitHub.
- Link the official n8n GitHub repo.
- Configure environment variables:
- N8N_HOST=0.0.0.0
- N8N_PORT=5678
- N8N_BASIC_AUTH_ACTIVE=true (optional)
- N8N_BASIC_AUTH_USER and N8N_BASIC_AUTH_PASSWORD
- N8N_HOST=0.0.0.0
- Deploy and wait for Railway to set up your instance.
Access your n8n editor via the unique Railway domain:
https://your-project-name.up.railway.app
✅ Best for: Beginners or small projects who want cloud hosting without maintenance headaches.
Method 4: Using n8n Cloud
If you want a fully managed solution, n8n Cloud is the official hosted platform.
Benefits:
- No server setup or maintenance required
- Automatic updates and SSL certificates
- Built-in backups and support
- Start immediately with a free trial
Steps:
- Go to n8n Cloud.
- Choose a plan (free trial available).
- Sign up and log in. Your n8n workspace will be ready instantly.
✅ Best for: Non-technical users and businesses who want hassle-free automation.
Which Installation Method Should You Choose?
| Method | Best For | Pros | Cons |
| npm | Local testing | Fast, minimal setup | Not suitable for production |
| Docker | Production deployments | Consistent environment, scalable | Requires Docker knowledge |
| Railway | Cloud hosting (free tier) | Easy, no servers | Limited free resources |
| n8n Cloud | Managed SaaS solution | Fully hosted, automatic updates | Paid plans required for larger workflows |
Final Thoughts
Installing n8n is easier than you might think. Whether you choose npm for local testing, Docker for production, Railway for free cloud hosting, or n8n Cloud for managed workflows, you can get started quickly and begin automating your tasks immediately.
Once installed, the possibilities are endless: from automating emails, syncing CRM data, sending Slack alerts, to integrating APIs and AI workflows. 🚀
Ready to take your first automation to the next level? Stay tuned for our next guide: “How to Build Your First Workflow in n8n.”