Should I consider running n8n on my own server?

Hey everyone,

I’ve been looking into workflow automation tools and n8n caught my eye. I’m wondering if it’s a good idea to set it up on my own server instead of using the cloud version. Has anyone here tried self-hosting n8n?

I’m curious about:

  • How hard is it to set up and maintain?
  • Are there any big advantages to self-hosting?
  • Do you save money in the long run?
  • Are there any downsides I should know about?

Would love to hear from people who’ve tried it. Thanks for any insights!

I’ve been running n8n on my own server for about 6 months now, and I can share some insights. Setup wasn’t too challenging if you’re comfortable with basic server management. The main advantage is complete control over your data and workflows. Cost-wise, it can be more economical, especially for high-volume automation. However, be prepared for some maintenance work and staying on top of updates. The main downside is you’re responsible for security and backups. Overall, if you value flexibility and don’t mind a bit of hands-on work, self-hosting can be rewarding. Just make sure you have the time and skills to manage it properly.

hey, i’ve been self-hosting n8n for a few months. it’s pretty cool but can be a bit of a hassle sometimes. setup wasn’t too bad, but you gotta keep an eye on updates. main perk is having full control over everything. saves some cash if you’re doing lots of automations. downside is troubleshooting can be a pain. if you’re tech-savvy and dont mind some extra work, go for it!

I’ve been using n8n on my own server for about a year now, and it’s been quite a journey. The initial setup took some effort, but it wasn’t insurmountable. The biggest advantage I’ve found is the ability to customize everything to my exact needs. No limitations or unexpected changes from a cloud provider.

Cost-wise, it’s definitely been cheaper for me in the long run, especially since I’m running multiple workflows. However, you do need to factor in the time spent on maintenance and troubleshooting. There have been a few late nights fixing issues after updates!

One downside to consider is the lack of immediate support. When something goes wrong, you’re on your own to figure it out. That said, the n8n community is pretty helpful.

If you enjoy tinkering and want full control, self-hosting can be very rewarding. Just be prepared for a learning curve and some occasional headaches.