Run n8n on Ubuntu with Docker and PostgreSQL in 20 minutes
If you want a self-hosted workflow automation stack that doesn’t cost $50/mo in SaaS subscriptions, this Linux Today guide covers the full setup: n8n running inside Docker, backed by PostgreSQL, on Ubuntu 26.04. The whole thing takes about 20 minutes.
Why This Stack
n8n is an open-source workflow automation platform with a visual drag-and-drop editor. You connect apps, APIs, databases, and services without writing much code. It competes in the same space as Zapier and Make, but you control the infrastructure.
Docker handles the deployment side by packaging n8n and its dependencies into isolated containers. That makes updates and rollbacks straightforward. PostgreSQL replaces the default SQLite backend and gives you durable, scalable storage for workflows, credentials, and execution history.
️ What You Need
- Ubuntu 26.04 server or VM
- Docker and Docker Compose installed
- PostgreSQL as the workflow database
The guide walks through configuring all three together into a production-ready setup. The Linux Today post links to the full step-by-step instructions with the specific commands and configuration files.
Who This Is For
Solo operators and small teams who want to automate repetitive tasks, build API integrations, or replace paid automation tools with something they host themselves. The stack is described as suitable for personal projects through to enterprise environments.
Full setup guide on Linux Today.
I’m founder of BizStack at Cagri Sarigoz LLC and a passionate advocate for entrepreneurs.
With over 14 years in tech, marketing, and AI, including my role as Head of SEO at CitizenShipper and co-founder of TaleBot at Intale AI, I’m dedicated to sharing genuine, useful product insights and tips.
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