For a simple workflow transfer, export workflows and credentials with n8n’s Server CLI. For a full recovery, back up the whole deployment: the .n8n user folder, database, credential-encryption key, deployment configuration, and any external storage or custom-node directories. A workflow export alone cannot restore users, execution history, variables, or instance settings.
Choose the backup scope first
n8n’s CLI backup option is useful for moving workflows and credentials, but it is not a complete instance backup. A full recovery also needs the database and other data and configuration that the running installation depends on. The n8n backup-and-restore guide lists users and roles, executions and logs, variables, and instance settings among the items omitted from CLI backup exports.
| Approach | What it is for | What to preserve |
|---|---|---|
| CLI workflow and credential exports | Transferring workflows and credentials between instances | Separate workflow and credential JSON exports; the original encryption key for encrypted credentials, or a protected decrypted export |
| Full deployment backup | Recovering the installation and its state | The .n8n folder, database, deployment configuration, and any configured external storage or custom-node directories |
Export workflows and credentials with the CLI
Run these commands on the n8n installation whose workflows and credentials you want to export:
n8n export:workflow --backup --output=backups/workflows/
n8n export:credentials --backup --output=backups/credentials/The --backup flag selects --all --pretty --separate, producing readable JSON files for individual records. Keep the workflow and credential exports in separate directories: n8n documents that import:credentials --separate currently fails if its input directory also contains workflow files.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Choose which workflow version to export. By default, the CLI exports the current draft. The --published option exports the published or active version instead, while --version can target a historical workflow version. These options are documented in n8n’s command-line reference.
For Docker installations, make sure the output survives container replacement. Write to a host directory mounted into the container, or copy the exports out before recreating it; a directory held only inside the container is not persistent.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Import exports into another instance
Import the two directories separately:
n8n import:workflow --separate --input=backups/workflows/
n8n import:credentials --separate --input=backups/credentials/- Complete owner setup first on a fresh instance. n8n needs an existing user, and imported credentials need an owner.
- Choose the destination project or user where needed. On instances with multiple users or projects, use
--userIdor--projectIdas appropriate. - Check for matching IDs before importing. Exported IDs are preserved, so importing can overwrite target records with matching IDs.
- Review workflow activation deliberately. Imported workflows are deactivated by default. The CLI option
--activeState=fromJsonis documented only for queue or multi-main modes; otherwise, activate workflows intentionally after checking their configuration.
Use the n8n export and import guide for additional workflow import and export details.
Make a complete backup of a local n8n installation
Back up the .n8n user folder
By default, n8n uses ~/.n8n. The folder contains the config file, which stores the credential-encryption key. With default SQLite, it also contains the database. Depending on the configured storage mode, filesystem-mode binary or execution data may be there as well. If N8N_USER_FOLDER is set, n8n uses a .n8n subfolder under that configured parent path.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Back up the database consistently
With SQLite, the database is inside the user folder. Stop n8n before copying that folder so a database write does not leave the copy inconsistent. If stopping n8n is not possible, use a tool that creates a consistent SQLite snapshot.
With PostgreSQL, back up the external database using PostgreSQL’s own backup tooling. Keep the .n8n folder too: the database’s encrypted credential values depend on the encryption key stored there.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Include data and extensions stored elsewhere
If binary or execution data is configured to use an external store such as S3 or Azure Blob Storage, include that storage in the recovery plan. Also back up custom filesystem paths used for data and directories configured through N8N_CUSTOM_EXTENSIONS.
Preserve deployment configuration
Retain the environment settings needed to reconnect the restored instance to its database and external storage. This includes database connection variables, external-storage settings, and any custom N8N_ENCRYPTION_KEY that was set. Without the applicable key, encrypted credentials cannot be decrypted.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchBest Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Restore the full deployment in the right order
Stop n8n before replacing its files or restoring its database. Follow the documented sequence:
- Stop n8n.
- Restore the
.n8nfolder and configured custom-node directories. - If the instance uses PostgreSQL, restore the PostgreSQL database.
- Restore deployment configuration, including database connection variables, any custom encryption key, and external-storage settings.
- Start n8n.
For a default SQLite installation, the restored .n8n folder supplies the database, users, settings, key, and filesystem-mode binary or execution data if configured. For PostgreSQL, the database backup restores database state, while the .n8n folder remains necessary for the encryption key.
Protect credential exports
Encrypted credential exports depend on the exporting instance’s encryption key. Preserve and restore that same key with the data. Alternatively, n8n supports exporting credentials with --decrypted, but those files expose credential values in plain text. Restrict access to decrypted exports and remove them after the restore is complete.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Recommended Free Tools
