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How do you self-host n8n on a low-cost cloud instance?

Create a Cloud Instance, install Docker from the web terminal, start the official n8n container with a data volume, and open its port to get an HTTPS address. Self-hosting removes the limit on workflow executions: the only ceiling is the CPU and memory of the instance. You own the server, so updates and exports of the n8n data are yours to run.

Create a Cloud Instance Cloud Instance

Step by step

  1. 1

    Create the instance

    Dashboard → Instances → New: pick an OS image and a pack with at least 2 GB of memory for n8n. The order creates an invoice and the instance starts once it is paid.

  2. 2

    Install Docker

    Open the web terminal on the instance page (or SSH in) and install Docker with the official script.

    In the instance terminal

    curl -fsSL https://get.docker.com | sh
  3. 3

    Start n8n with a data volume

    The volume keeps your workflows and credentials when the container is replaced. Set the public address so webhooks use it.

    Run n8n

    docker volume create n8n_data
docker run -d --name n8n --restart unless-stopped -p 5678:5678 \
  -e WEBHOOK_URL=https://YOUR-ADDRESS/ \
  -v n8n_data:/home/node/.n8n docker.n8n.io/n8nio/n8n
  4. 4

    Open the port

    On the instance page open port 5678 (vm_port_open over MCP). The instance gets an HTTPS address for that port; use it as the address above and restart the container.

  5. 5

    Create the owner account

    Open the HTTPS address, create the n8n owner account straight away, and export your workflows now and then as your own copy.

What it costs

  • A Cloud Instance from $2/mo, flat for the term.
  • n8n itself is free to self-host under its own licence; check that licence for your use.

App

$1/mo

Starter Frontend pack, 1 vCPU / 1 GB RAM / 10 GB

Database, users and files

$5/mo

Smallest dedicated Supabase pack; several projects fit on one

All packs and specs Railway cost calculator

Questions

How much memory does n8n need?+

It starts on 1 GB, but 2 GB or more is more comfortable once several workflows run at once.

Can I use my own domain?+

Yes. Point the domain at the instance and set it as the webhook address in the container's environment.

How do I update n8n?+

Pull the new image, remove the container and start it again with the same volume. The workflows live in the volume.

Is the instance mine alone?+

Yes. It is a full root instance with its own CPU, memory and disk.

Can an AI agent set this up?+

Yes. Over MCP an agent can run the commands on the instance and open the port, after you approve the session.

What does it cost?+

From $2/mo for the instance.

Related

Next guides

Sources: n8n docs: Docker installation (2026-11-11)