Deploy | n8n Docs
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Deploy

n8n offers two different deployment methods. n8n Cloud gives fast, managed setup on an instance run by n8n. Self-hosted n8n lets you run n8n on your own machine or infrastructure.

Deploy documentation helps you deploy, configure, secure, and maintain n8n in either model.

Deployment option

Use n8n Cloud Managed by n8n. Get started fast, with less operational work.

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Use n8n Cloud
Deployment option

Self-host n8n Run n8n yourself with Docker, npm, Docker Compose, or a supported platform.

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Host n8n

Compare deployment options

Below is a high-level overview of each option. If you're still deciding, look at Choose your n8n for more guidance.

Use n8n Cloud

n8n Cloud is the managed option. n8n runs the instance for you.

Choose n8n Cloud if you want to:

  • Start fast with minimal setup

  • Reduce infrastructure and maintenance work

  • Use Cloud-specific admin and configuration tools

Use n8n Cloud

Self-host n8n

Self-hosting gives you control over how n8n runs and how you manage your environment.

Choose self-hosting if you want to:

  • Run n8n on your own infrastructure

  • Finely control upgrades, configuration, and security

  • Design for custom scaling or platform requirements

Want to try self-hosting right now?

Requires Docker on Linux or macOS (or WSL on Windows). Sets up n8n locally in one step. See the one-line setup guide for details.

Self-hosted topic

Host n8n overview Start with the main self-hosted landing page.

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Host n8n
Self-hosted topic

Install options Set up n8n with Docker, npm, Docker Compose, or a cloud provider.

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Install options
Self-hosted topic

Configure n8n Manage databases, environment variables, users, licenses, and security settings.

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Configure n8n
Self-hosted topic

Keep n8n running Monitor, log, trace, and update your instance.

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Keep n8n running
Self-hosted topic

Understand the architecture Learn how n8n works and how it structures its database.

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Understand the architecture
Host n8n

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