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n8n Update

This workflow implements automatic version detection and updates for running Docker containers. It regularly checks the differences between the current version and the latest released version on GitHub, automatically notifying users if updates are available. Upon user confirmation, it pulls the latest image and restarts the container. Notifications and interactions are conducted via Telegram, allowing users to conveniently manage updates remotely, ensuring that the platform always runs on the latest stable version, thereby enhancing system security and functional integrity.

Workflow Diagram
n8n Update Workflow diagram

Workflow Name

n8n Update

Key Features and Highlights

This workflow automates the detection and updating of running n8n Docker container versions. It periodically (e.g., every three days) checks the difference between the currently deployed n8n version and the latest release on GitHub. It automatically notifies users if an update is available and, upon user confirmation, pulls the latest Docker image, executes Docker Compose pull and restart commands, completing the n8n update process. The entire workflow supports messaging and interaction via Telegram, enabling convenient remote management and approval of updates.

Core Problems Addressed

This workflow solves the automation challenge of managing and upgrading n8n service versions, eliminating the need for manual version checks and updates, which can be tedious and prone to oversight. It ensures that the n8n platform always runs the latest stable version, enhancing system security and feature completeness.

Use Cases

  • DevOps teams requiring regular maintenance and upgrades of the n8n automation platform.
  • Individual or enterprise users leveraging n8n for workflow automation who want to simplify the version update process.
  • Users needing remote monitoring and control of n8n update status, with timely update notifications and approval capabilities.

Main Workflow Steps

  1. Trigger update checks on a schedule (default every three days) using Schedule Trigger.
  2. Set default variables (working directory, n8n Docker container name, Telegram chat ID, etc.).
  3. Remotely execute commands to query the current n8n container version.
  4. Use the GitHub API to fetch the latest n8n release version information.
  5. Format version information by removing unnecessary prefixes.
  6. Merge and compare the current version with the latest release version.
  7. If versions match, send a Telegram notification indicating no update is needed.
  8. If versions differ, send a Telegram message asking the user to approve the update.
  9. Upon user confirmation via Telegram reply, remotely execute commands to pull the latest Docker image.
  10. Run Docker Compose to pull the latest image and restart the container.
  11. Send a Telegram notification upon completion of the update.

Involved Systems and Services

  • n8n Automation Platform
  • Docker and Docker Compose
  • GitHub API (for fetching the latest release versions)
  • SSH (for remote server command execution)
  • Telegram (for messaging notifications and user interaction)

Target Users and Value

  • Operations engineers and developers who need to automate n8n version upgrades.
  • Teams or individuals aiming to reduce manual maintenance tasks.
  • Managers requiring remote approval and monitoring of update statuses.
  • Enterprise users seeking secure and stable operation of their workflow platforms.

By combining remote command execution, version comparison, and instant messaging notifications, this workflow significantly enhances the automation and convenience of managing n8n updates, making it a practical tool for operations automation.