How to Install and Self-Host n8n on Your WordPress Site

n8n is a powerful workflow automation tool that allows seamless integration between various applications and APIs. In this guide, we will cover two installation methods: using Hostinger’s easy one-click setup and a manual installation for users who prefer hands-on control.

Prerequisites

Before installing n8n, make sure you meet the following requirements:

Ubuntu Virtual Private Server (VPS) with at least 1 vCPU and 1GB RAM (KVM1).
Domain or subdomain (optional, but recommended for HTTPS and easier access).
Access to your VPS via SSH or hosting control panel.
Docker (not required for the Hostinger template).

How to Install n8n using Hostinger’s VPS Template

Follow these steps to install n8n using Hostinger’s one-click template:

1. Access the VPS Dashboard

To access your VPS dashboard, log in to hPanel and navigate to the VPS section. Choose the VPS you want to apply the n8n template to and click the Manage button.

2. Install the n8n Template

In the VPS dashboard, open the OS & Panel dropdown menu and select Operating System. Search for ‘n8n’ in the search bar and select the n8n template. Confirm the OS change and set a password for the root user. The template setup will begin and your n8n instance will be ready shortly.

3. Test the Installation

In the VPS Overview page, click Manage App to open the n8n registration dialog. Enter your details and create a password. If you can see the n8n panel in its default view, your setup was successful.

4. Configure your n8n Instance

To fine-tune your n8n instance, click the three-dot icon next to your name and select Settings. Here, you can adjust your credentials and modify n8n with environment variables. Connect to your VPS via SSH or the browser terminal, open the docker-compose.yml file, and add or adjust the environment variables. Save and restart Docker Compose to apply the changes.

How to Install n8n on Ubuntu Manually

If you prefer a manual installation, follow these steps:

1. Install Dependencies

Connect to your VPS and update your package lists. Install essential dependencies like Node.js and Docker (if required).

2. Set up n8n

For direct installation, install n8n globally using npm. Start a screen session and run n8n. For containerized installation, pull the latest n8n Docker image and run it with port mapping. Ensure persistent storage for data.

3. Configure n8n

Secure your n8n instance by setting environment variables for authentication and other configurations. Pass these variables using the -e flag when running n8n as a Docker container.

4. Enable Secure Access

To enable HTTPS, install NGINX and Certbot. Configure NGINX as a reverse proxy for n8n and generate a free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate. Set up a cron job for certificate renewal.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed and self-hosted n8n on your WordPress site. Make sure to keep n8n secure, update it regularly, and back up your data. If you encounter any issues or need support, refer to the n8n documentation and community.

How to Install n8n FAQ

Can you run n8n locally?

Yes, you can run n8n locally by installing it globally using npm. Start n8n by running ‘n8n’ or ‘n8n start’.

Which VPS plan do I need to run n8n?

A VPS with 2 vCPUs and 4GB RAM should be sufficient. Hostinger’s KVM2 plan is recommended.

How do I access n8n after installing it?

After installing n8n, access it in your browser using the IP address of your server or your custom domain (if configured) with the appropriate port number.

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