A Simple Guide to Setting Up and Refreshing n8n on Your Local Machine

n8n is an open-source tool. It automates tasks and boosts your productivity. It builds custom workflows. You can self-host n8n on your local machine. This way, you keep full control. No limitations stop your automations. This guide helps you set up and refresh n8n on your computer.

Step 1: Installing Node.js

Before n8n runs, install Node.js. Node.js is the runtime you need for n8n. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the Node.js website.
2. Click the download button. Choose the version that fits your system (Windows, Linux, or Mac).
3. When the download completes, open the installer. Follow the on-screen steps to finish installing Node.js.

Step 2: Installing n8n

With Node.js in place, install n8n next. Do this:

1. Windows Users: Open the Command Prompt.
   Linux/Mac Users: Open the Terminal.

2. In your command line, type this command and press Enter:

   npm install n8n -g

   This command installs n8n across your system. Wait a few minutes for it to finish.

3. When it finishes, check that n8n is set up right. Type:

   n8n

   This command starts the n8n app. It shows setup instructions and gives you a URL for the dashboard in your browser.

Step 3: Setting Up an Admin Account

Once n8n runs, set up your admin account:

1. Open your web browser.
2. Type the URL from the terminal to reach the n8n dashboard.
3. Enter your email, first name, last name, and a password.
4. Click “Next” and follow the prompts until you see the dashboard.

Now you can start building your workflows!

Step 4: Updating n8n

It is vital to keep n8n updated. Here is how:

1. Open your command prompt or terminal.

2. Type this command:

   npm update n8n

   This finds and installs the latest update.

3. After updating, restart n8n by typing n8n. Then open the dashboard in your browser.

Exploring the n8n Dashboard

Now that n8n is ready and updated, let us look at the dashboard:

• Workflows Tab: Manage your workflows.
• Credentials Tab: Add the credentials for third-party services.
• Marketplace: Use templates to start new workflows.
• Execution History: Watch your workflow runs for debugging.
• Help Section: Find guides and help for n8n.

Conclusion

Setting up and refreshing n8n on your local machine is simple. Follow these steps to create, manage, and update your workflows. Use n8n’s open-source power for countless automations. Enjoy your time automating tasks!