TechRadar guide shows how to self-host n8n automation platform with Docker

According to TechRadar, the setup requires a virtual machine, server, or NAS with at least two virtual CPUs and four gigabytes of RAM. A compatible Linux distribution such as Ubuntu, Debian, or Raspberry Pi OS is recommended, and users need access to Docker and Docker Compose repositories. A managed Kubernetes cluster is listed as optional for production-grade workloads.

The installation process begins by updating the Linux package catalog and installing Docker along with its dependencies through the terminal. TechRadar then instructs users to create a directory for the n8n setup and create a .env file containing domain name, time zone, and SSL email fields. For local installations, the domain-related fields can be removed, leaving only the time zone. A compose.yaml file is then created to define the n8n service, mapping it to port 5678 on the device and storing workflows and credentials in a Docker volume.

After the configuration files are ready, users can launch the containers with the "docker compose up -d" command. The n8n editor can be accessed at https://localhost:5678 on the local device. On first launch, the editor asks users to create an account. Entering an email, name, and password with at least one capital letter and number makes the user the instance owner, similar to a super-admin, with full access to every workflow and credential. TechRadar advises setting up member-level accounts for other users if change tracking is needed.

The guide also explains how to build an AI workflow using n8n's node-based visual interface. The interface resembles a flowchart and allows the use of triggers and actions. Users can test different parts of a workflow during editing with the Execute step button and save and enable the workflow once it works. TechRadar's FAQ clarifies that n8n is not open-source but is free to use with certain limitations, describing it under the "fair-code" model.