How to Install n8n Without Docker (Easy Node.js Method – Step by Step)

Have you ever wished your apps could talk to each other automatically?
For example, when a new lead fills out a form on your website, you instantly get a WhatsApp alert, and the contact is saved in Google Sheets—without lifting a finger.

That’s exactly what n8n automation does.

Many guides tell you to install n8n using Docker. While Docker is powerful, it can feel heavy and confusing—especially if you’re just getting started. The good news? You can install n8n without Docker using Node.js, and it’s often faster, lighter, and easier to manage.

At CreativeON, we’ve been helping Pakistani businesses like City42, Daewoo Pakistan, and Chughtai Lab stay online for over 20 years. In this guide, we’ll show you a simple, production-ready way to run self-hosted n8n on your own VPS in Pakistan.

Why Install n8n Without Docker?

Docker isn’t bad—but it’s not always necessary.

Installing n8n directly with Node.js is:

• Lightweight (uses fewer server resources)

   

• Faster to set up

   

• Easier to troubleshoot

   

• Ideal for small to medium automations

   

• Perfect for beginners using a VPS in Pakistan

   

If you want a smooth and reliable self-hosted n8n setup, the Node.js method is a great choice.

What You Need Before You Start

Before installing n8n, make sure you have the following:

1. A VPS Server

To keep n8n running 24/7, you’ll need a VPS.
We recommend:

• Linux VPS (Ubuntu 20.04 or 22.04) for best performance

   

• Minimum 1 vCPU & 2GB RAM (4GB recommended for multiple workflows)

   

👉 CreativeON offers reliable VPS hosting in Pakistan with local support.

2. Node.js (LTS Version)

n8n requires Node.js 18 or later (LTS).
This is the stable, long-term supported version.

3. Basic Terminal Access

You don’t need to be a developer—just basic copy-paste commands.

Step 1: Prepare Your VPS

First, log in to your VPS using SSH.

Update your system packages:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

This ensures your server is secure and ready—like giving it a fresh start.

Step 2: Install Node.js (LTS)

Install Node.js using the official NodeSource repository:

curl -fsSL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_18.x | sudo -E bash –

sudo apt install -y nodejs

Verify installation:

node -v

npm -v

If you see version numbers, you’re good to go ✅

Step 3: Install n8n (Without Docker)

Now install n8n globally using npm:

npm install n8n -g

This allows you to run n8n from anywhere on your server.

Step 4: Start n8n for the First Time

Run:

n8n

By default, n8n runs on port 5678.

Open your browser and visit:

http://YOUR_SERVER_IP:5678

🎉 You should now see the n8n dashboard.

Step 5: Keep n8n Running (Very Important)

If you close the terminal, n8n will stop.
To run n8n continuously and safely, use PM2, a process manager.

Install PM2:

npm install pm2 -g

Start n8n with PM2:

pm2 start n8n

Save & Enable Auto-Start:

pm2 save

pm2 startup

Now n8n will:

• Restart automatically if it crashes

   

• Start again after a server reboot

   

Important Security Tips (Must Read)

Before using n8n in production:

• Do NOT expose n8n publicly without protection

   

• Use:

   

  • Basic authentication

     

  • Or a reverse proxy (Nginx + SSL)

     

• Always keep Node.js and n8n updated

   

👉 If you’re unsure, CreativeON’s support team can help secure your setup.

Can You Run n8n on Windows VPS?

Yes! You can install n8n on a Windows VPS in Pakistan as well.

However:

• Linux VPS is more stable and cost-effective

   

• Windows setup uses PowerShell instead of SSH

   

• PM2 still works, but Linux is strongly recommended for production

   

Why Choose CreativeON for Your n8n VPS?

CreativeON is:

• ✅ One of the oldest hosting providers in Pakistan

   

• ✅ PKNIC Gold Partner for .PK domains

   

• ✅ Official Google Workspace Partner & Reseller

   

• ✅ Trusted by major Pakistani brands

   

We often offer better VPS pricing by keeping our margins low—so you get more performance for less.

Whether you need:

• Cheap VPS in Pakistan

   

• High-performance VPS for automation

   

• Local technical support

   

👉 We’ve got you covered.

Common Questions