How to Set Up n8n & Import Workflows

Setting up n8n and importing workflows correctly is essential for building reliable automation systems. This guide walks you through installing n8n, accessing the editor, and importing workflows.

What Is n8n?

n8n (pronounced n-eight-n) is a powerful fair-code workflow automation tool that lets you connect apps, APIs, and services without heavy coding. It is commonly used for:

Business process automation
HR and recruitment workflows
Marketing automation
IT operations and monitoring
AI-powered chatbots and agents

Setup Options Overview

n8n can be set up in multiple ways, depending on your use case, scale, and infrastructure preferences:

n8n Cloud (Hosted) – Fully managed by n8n, no server maintenance required
Self-hosted (Docker) – Recommended for production and full control

Method 1: Set Up n8n Cloud

n8n Cloud is the official hosted version of n8n. It is the fastest way to get started, as infrastructure, updates, and security are managed for you.

Steps:

Go to the n8n Cloud website.
Sign up using your work/personal email by clicking the get started button.
Fill up all the required information and start the free 14-day trial.

Method 2: Set Up Local n8n Using Docker

Using Docker is the best practice for production and long-term use.

Steps:

Download and install Docker Desktop based on your operating system.
Launch Docker Desktop.
In the search bar at the top of the page, search for “n8n”.
Go to n8nio/n8n and pull the Docker image.
Create a new container by clicking Run on the n8nio/n8n image.
Create a new file directory to be the volume.
Configure the container name and port mapping.
Set the volume path to the directory you created in Step 6.
Under Environment variables (optional), you may add the following:
- N8N_BASIC_AUTH_ACTIVE → true
- N8N_BASIC_AUTH_USER → your preferred username
- N8N_BASIC_AUTH_PASSWORD → a strong password
Hit “Run”
You can then access the n8n editor at http://localhost:5678.

How to Import n8n Workflows from Supern8n

n8n workflows are typically shared as JSON files. Importing them correctly ensures all nodes and connections remain intact.

Steps:

Download the zipped files of the workflow you have purchased.
Extract the zipped files.
Search for a “.json” file type.
Open your n8n workspace and Create Workflow.
Click on the three dots at the top right corner and choose the option “Import from File…”.
Select and open the json file that has been extracted.