If you're looking to automate tasks and streamline workflows, installing n8n on your Linux system is a smart move. n8n (pronounced "n-eight-n") is an open-source workflow automation tool that allows you to integrate different services with ease. Whether you're using Ubuntu, Debian, or Fedora, this guide will walk you through how to install n8n on Linux, with simple, step-by-step instructions. This post is perfect for both newcomers and those with some experience in DevOps or automation.
What Is n8n and Why Install It on Linux?
n8n is short for "nodemation" and stands out as a flexible alternative to other automation tools like Zapier or Make.com. It's self-hosted, meaning you're in total control of your data and workflows. Installing it on Linux provides you with:
- Full ownership of your data
- No task or execution limits
- Easier integration with local or private tools
- Enhanced security through self-hosting
Linux is widely used for hosting software due to its stability and flexibility, making it a great platform for your n8n setup.
Prerequisites for Installing n8n on Linux
Before starting, make sure you have the following prepared:
- A Linux server or local machine (Ubuntu/Debian/Fedora)
- A user account with sudo privileges
- A stable internet connection
- Basic knowledge of the terminal
You’ll also need to install a few dependencies like Node.js, npm, and optionally Docker if you choose a containerized deployment.
Method 1: Install n8n on Ubuntu/Debian Using Node.js
Step 1: Update Your System
Open your terminal and ensure your system packages are up to date:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
Step 2: Install Node.js and npm
We recommend using NodeSource to get the latest stable Node.js version:
curl -fsSL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_18.x | sudo -E bash -
sudo apt install -y nodejs
Verify the installation:
node -v
npm -v
Make sure Node.js version is >= 18 for best compatibility with n8n.
Step 3: Install n8n Globally via npm
Now, install n8n globally so you can run it from anywhere:
sudo npm install -g n8n
After installation, start n8n:
n8n
By default, n8n will start on port 5678. Open your browser and go to:
http://localhost:5678
If you're installing on a server, replace localhost with your server’s IP address.
Method 2: Install n8n Using Docker (Cross-Distro Compatible)
Using Docker is often more secure and portable. This method works on Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora systems.
Step 1: Install Docker and Docker Compose
Ubuntu/Debian:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y docker.io docker-compose
Fedora:
sudo dnf install -y docker docker-compose
Start and enable the Docker service:
sudo systemctl start docker
sudo systemctl enable docker
Step 2: Create a Docker Compose File
Create a directory for n8n:
mkdir n8n && cd n8n
Create a docker-compose.yml file:
version: '3'
services:
n8n:
image: n8nio/n8n
restart: always
ports:
- "5678:5678"
environment:
- N8N_BASIC_AUTH_ACTIVE=true
- N8N_BASIC_AUTH_USER=admin
- N8N_BASIC_AUTH_PASSWORD=securepassword
volumes:
- ./n8n_data:/home/node/.n8n
🔐 Tip: Replace
securepasswordwith a strong password.
Step 3: Run Your n8n Container
Now start the container:
docker-compose up -d
Visit http://localhost:5678 or your server’s IP to access the n8n dashboard.
Method 3: Install n8n on Fedora Using Node.js
If you prefer to skip Docker, you can install n8n on Fedora directly using Node.js.
Step 1: Install Node.js
Use the NodeSource script for Fedora:
curl -fsSL https://rpm.nodesource.com/setup_18.x | sudo bash -
sudo dnf install -y nodejs
Confirm installation:
node -v
npm -v
Step 2: Install n8n and Run It
sudo npm install -g n8n
n8n
You should now be able to access the n8n UI from a browser on port 5678.
Bonus: Run n8n as a Background Service
By default, n8n runs in the foreground. To keep it running in the background, especially on production servers, use a process manager like PM2.
Step 1: Install PM2
sudo npm install -g pm2
Step 2: Start n8n with PM2
pm2 start n8n
To ensure n8n starts on boot:
pm2 startup
pm2 save
This keeps your automation platform running 24/7 without manual restarts.
Useful Configuration Options
You can configure n8n with environment variables for better control. Here’s a sample table of commonly used options:
| Environment Variable | Purpose | Example Value |
|---|---|---|
N8N_PORT |
Change default port | 8080 |
N8N_BASIC_AUTH_USER |
Set admin username | admin |
N8N_BASIC_AUTH_PASSWORD |
Set admin password | mySecurePassword |
N8N_HOST |
Set host IP/domain | n8n.example.com |
To use these, either set them in your shell or inside your Docker Compose file.
Next Steps After You Install n8n on Linux
Now that you've installed n8n on your Linux system, here are a few ideas to get started:
- Create your first workflow: Automate RSS to Twitter, Gmail to Notion, or Slack notifications.
- Install self-signed SSL: Use Let's Encrypt with Nginx reverse proxy for HTTPS.
- Enable backups: Backup your workflow files stored in
~/.n8nor Docker volume.
The possibilities are endless as n8n supports hundreds of integrations, and custom webhook triggers.
FAQ
How do I update n8n after installation?
If installed via npm, use:
sudo npm update -g n8n
If you used Docker, just pull the latest image:
docker-compose down
docker pull n8nio/n8n
docker-compose up -d
Is it safe to expose n8n to the internet?
Yes, but make sure to enable basic auth and HTTPS. n8n supports built-in authentication and can be placed behind a reverse proxy like Nginx for added security.
Can I run multiple workflows at the same time?
Absolutely! n8n is capable of running concurrent workflows. Just ensure your server has enough RAM and CPU resources.
Where are workflows stored in n8n?
By default:
- Local Install: In
~/.n8n - Docker Install: In the volume mapped to
/home/node/.n8n
You can change the storage location using environment variables.
What are the minimum system requirements to install n8n on Linux?
- 1 GB RAM (2 GB+ recommended)
- 1 vCPU
- Disk space: 2–5 GB for workflows and node modules
Better specs will offer improved performance for larger automations.
This guide gave you multiple reliable ways to install n8n on Linux, including Docker and direct Node.js methods. Whether you're automating marketing reports, CRM updates, or DevOps workflows, n8n on Linux is a powerful solution that keeps you in control.