[Free n8n] How to Install n8n on local machine using NPM Node.js | Self-Hosting n8n Course Tutorial

Do you want full control of your n8n AI Automation workflows, without relying on the cloud or vendor lock-in?

In this step-by-step n8n tutorial on how to install and run n8n locally, you’ll learn exactly how to install and run n8n locally using NPM and Node.js. Whether you’re a developer, tech-savvy freelancer, or n8n AI automation enthusiast, setting up n8n on your own machine gives you unmatched freedom, customization, control, and data privacy.

We’ll also compare when you self-host free n8n locally vs n8n Cloud to help you decide which version suits your needs — and why you might want to use both depending on your project.

👇 Here’s what you’ll learn in this video (no guesswork, just action):

✅ How to install n8n locally for free using Node.js + npm
✅ How to launch free n8n from your terminal (with optional port config)
✅ How to upgrade n8n to the latest version using CLI
✅ Key benefits of self-hosting n8n — and when it makes sense
✅ n8n Cloud vs Local comparison: cost, control, security, and performance

📌 Who this is for:
✔️ Developers or power users exploring advanced n8n automation setups on local machine
✔️ Solopreneurs or freelancers who want cost-free n8n flexibility
✔️ Teams that need custom integrations or secure on-premise n8n workflows
✔️ Anyone comparing n8n Cloud vs n8n Local for real-world use cases

⏱️ Timestamps / Video Chapters:
0:00 Intro: Why consider free n8n local setup?
0:18 Docker vs Local vs Cloud: Key Differences
4:18 How to Install n8n Locally (Step-by-Step)
4:58 Install Prerequisites: Node.js and npm
6:58 How to Start n8n on your local machine
10:44 Upgrading n8n to the latest version

💡 Why Self-Host n8n?
Running n8n locally gives you complete control over how your workflows execute, where your data lives, and which custom nodes you use. It’s perfect for developers, small teams, or anyone wanting deeper flexibility without monthly costs.

📥 Helpful Links:
🛠️ Sign up for n8n Cloud → https://app.n8n.cloud/register
🛠️ Download the workflow shown in this video → COMING SOON in Community
▶️ Watch the Full n8n Zero to Hero Course Playlist → https://tinyurl.com/3rw3x6hy
🌐 Join the GenAI Unplugged Community → https://genaiunplugged.com/subscribe
🤝 Let’s connect on LinkedIn →   / dheerajsharma14  

🙌 Like this video? Here’s what to do next:
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✅ Drop a comment: What workflow would you like me to build next?

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