Trigger an n8n Workflow Using a Webhook: Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to workflow automation, n8n stands out for its flexibility, open-source approach, and customizability. One of the most powerful and frequently used features of n8n is the Webhook node. If you've been wondering how to trigger an n8n workflow from a webhook — whether from a form submission, external app, or server-side call — you're in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down the setup step-by-step with real examples and practical insights.

Why Use Webhooks in n8n?

Webhooks allow external applications or services to send real-time data to your n8n workflow. This makes it possible to react to events like:

• New form submissions from tools like Typeform
• Payment success notifications from Stripe
• GitHub pushes or issues
• Internal system events from your own apps

Instead of polling or scheduling, using a webhook lets your workflow activate instantly the moment the trigger event occurs.

Understanding Webhook Nodes in n8n

What is a Webhook Node?

The Webhook node in n8n serves as an HTTP endpoint. When it receives a request (GET, POST, etc.), it starts the workflow. You can configure this node to accept any headers, JSON payloads, or even query parameters.

Key Features of the n8n Webhook:

• Supports GET, POST, PUT, and other HTTP methods
• Can dynamically extract query params, body data, and headers
• Ability to set custom paths
• Works with both test (development) and production modes

Step-by-Step: How to Trigger n8n Workflow from Webhook

Let’s walk through a simple step-by-step example to help you trigger your first n8n workflow using a webhook.

Step 1: Add a Webhook Node

1. Open your n8n editor UI.
2. Click on + to add a new node.
3. Search for “Webhook” and select it.

Step 2: Configure the Webhook Node

Under the Webhook node settings:

• HTTP Method: Choose POST (commonly used for sending data).
• Path: Set a unique endpoint path, e.g., /incoming-data.
• Response Mode: Set to On Received if you want to respond immediately.
• Response Code: Choose 200 for a successful basic response.

When you save this workflow with the node, n8n generates a test webhook URL that looks like this:

https://your-n8n-instance.com/webhook-test/incoming-data

Once you activate the workflow, a production URL will be generated:

https://your-n8n-instance.com/webhook/incoming-data

Step 3: Add a Data Processing Node (Optional)

To test what the webhook received, add a Set or Function node next:

1. Drag a Function node and connect it to the Webhook node.
2. In the code section, type:

   return [
     {
    json: {
      message: "Webhook received!",
      payload: $json
    }
     }
   ];
   

This will help you visualize the input data in the execution log.

Step 4: Save and Activate the Workflow

• Click Save to save your workflow.
• Then, click Activate in the editor.

Now your webhook is ready to receive data and trigger the workflow.

Testing Your Webhook with a Tool

You can now test it using:

• Webhook.site
• Postman
• curl in the command line

Example curl command:

curl -X POST https://your-n8n-instance.com/webhook/incoming-data 
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" 
  -d '{"name":"John Doe", "email":"john@example.com"}'

You should see this trigger the workflow instantly in n8n and execute the following nodes as defined.

Use Cases: Real-World Webhook Triggers in n8n

Triggering on Shopify Orders

Connect Shopify to n8n, and use its webhook system to notify n8n when a new order is placed. Set your webhook path in Shopify's admin and handle order creation, data logging, or email follow-ups automatically in n8n.

Related guide: Connect and automate Shopify store operations with n8n

Capturing Form Submissions

Integrate Google Forms or Typeform using middleware like Make.com or Pabbly, or use direct POST requests to n8n for custom forms. The webhook will ingest the form data and store it in Airtable or Google Sheets.

Related read: Connect n8n with Google Sheets, Google Calendar, Google Drive and more

Triggering a Chatbot Response

Use the webhook to receive a message from your chat platform (Telegram, WhatsApp, Slack), process the message with an AI node, and send back a response using integration nodes.

Tips for Managing Webhooks in Production

• Secure Your Webhook: Always validate inputs, check headers like Authorization tokens, and use a reverse proxy with authentication if needed.
• Rate Limiting: If handling high-volume triggers, consider rate management strategies using queues.
• Data Validation: Use IF or Switch nodes to validate and branch logic based on incoming data.
• Logging for Debugging: Use the [Function] node to log the incoming JSON or push it to a log management service like Loggly or Google Sheets.

Here’s a simple reference table for webhook status:

Remember to change the endpoint depending on the mode your workflow is in.

Advanced: Dynamic Webhook Paths

You can even use dynamic URLs by manipulating the path using expressions like:

/incoming-data/{{$json.userId}}

This way, different users can have specific webhook triggers.

FAQ

What is the difference between test and live webhook URLs in n8n?

Test URLs (ending with /webhook-test/) are for development and can only be called while the workflow editor is open. Once you activate the workflow, a live URL (e.g. /webhook/) is generated, which runs independently in the background.

Can I use query parameters in webhook triggers?

Yes. Query strings such as ?userId=123 can be accessed from the Webhook node’s output under the query object.

How do I secure my webhook in n8n?

You can add a secret token in the header or as a query parameter and validate it using logic in the Function or IF node. You can also limit accepted HTTP methods and origins.

Why is my webhook not triggering anything?

Ensure your workflow is activated. If using the test endpoint, confirm that the editor is open and “Execute Node” mode is on. Also, make sure you're using the correct HTTP method (POST, GET, etc.).

How do I trigger a workflow from another system?

Set the external system (like Stripe, Typeform, or your own app) to send an HTTP request (usually POST) to your n8n webhook URL when an event occurs. Just pass the required payload, and n8n will handle the rest.

Learning how to trigger n8n workflows from a webhook is often the first step toward building real-time, responsive automations. Whether you're capturing leads, processing incoming data, or integrating third-party systems, webhook-driven flows give you maximum control. Want to expand your automations further? Check out how to use n8n without paying a dime or explore our guide to ChatGPT-powered automations with n8n.