How to Install n8n on Windows Step by Step – Beginner Setup Guide

31 Jan 2026

In the previous lesson, we learned what automation is and how n8n helps reduce manual work. Before creating workflows, we must install n8n on our computer. This lesson explains the complete installation process step by step in very simple language. Even beginners with basic computer knowledge can follow easily.

Concept – Why Do We Need to Install n8n?

n8n is automation software. Just like we install MS Office for documents or a browser for internet, we must install n8n to create workflows. After installation, n8n runs as a small local server inside your computer.

Why Is Local Installation Useful?

  • No internet required to practice
  • Runs fully on your own PC
  • Free and safe for learning
  • Perfect for beginners

Problem Without Installation

If n8n is not installed:

  • We cannot create workflows
  • We cannot test automation
  • We cannot practice nodes

So installation is the first important step.

Manual Method (Old Way Without Tool)

Without automation software, tasks must be done manually like:

  • Send emails one by one
  • Update Excel manually
  • Prepare daily reports manually

This takes more time and effort.

Automation Solution

After installing n8n, you can create workflows that:

  • Run automatically
  • Send emails automatically
  • Update Excel automatically
  • Work 24/7 without supervision

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1 – Install Node.js

n8n works using Node.js. So first install Node.js.

  1. Open browser
  2. Go to nodejs.org
  3. Download LTS version
  4. Install normally (Next → Next → Install)

Step 2 – Check Node Installation

Open Command Prompt and type:

node -v
npm -v

If version numbers appear, installation is successful.

Step 3 – Install n8n

npm install n8n -g

Wait for installation to complete. This may take 2–3 minutes.

Step 4 – Start n8n Server

n8n start

Now the server starts running locally.

Step 5 – Open n8n Dashboard

Open browser and type:

http://localhost:5678

You will see the n8n workflow editor screen.

Step 6 – Create Owner Account

First time login requires:

  • Email
  • Name
  • Password

This keeps your system secure.

Real-Life Example

Now your computer acts like a small automation server. You can create workflows such as:

  • Daily attendance report
  • Form submission alerts
  • Automatic emails

Benefits of Installing n8n Locally

  • Free to use
  • No cloud cost
  • Fast performance
  • Easy testing
  • Safe learning environment

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not installing Node.js first
  • Typing wrong command
  • Forgetting to start server
  • Wrong localhost URL

Practice Exercise

  • Install Node.js
  • Install n8n
  • Start server
  • Open dashboard
  • Take screenshot of successful setup

Quick Remember Points

  • Node.js is required
  • Install using npm
  • Start using n8n start
  • Open localhost:5678

Quick Mind Map

Install Node.js
      ↓
Install n8n
      ↓
Start Server
      ↓
Open Browser
      ↓
Create Workflows

Conclusion

Installing n8n is simple and takes only a few minutes. Once installed, your computer becomes an automation machine. Now you are ready to build workflows and start automating your daily tasks.

Next Lesson

In Lesson 3, we will understand the n8n interface including canvas, nodes, and workflow editor.