.png)
Export n8n Workflow as JSON: Step-by-Step Guide for Safe Sharing and Backup
Exporting workflows in n8n — the open-source automation platform — is essential for sharing, version control, or migrating automations between environments. Whether you’re moving from local development to production or backing up critical automations, exporting as a JSON file ensures your workflows remain portable and recoverable.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to export your n8n workflows as JSON, understand what’s inside the export file, and apply best practices for safe sharing and automation.
What Is a Workflow Export in n8n?
In n8n, a workflow is a visual automation made up of connected nodes. Each node performs an action — from API calls to database updates — and together they define a process.
When you export a workflow, n8n converts the entire configuration into a JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) file. This file stores:
- Workflow metadata (ID, name, active status)
- Node definitions and parameters
- Connections between nodes
- Execution settings
However, credentials are not included in the export file by default, keeping sensitive information secure.
How to Export n8n Workflow as JSON (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to export any workflow in your local or cloud n8n instance:
Step 1: Open Your n8n Dashboard
Log into your local n8n instance or n8n Cloud at http://localhost:5678 or your hosted URL.
Step 2: Navigate to Workflows
In the left sidebar, click “Workflows” to see your list of saved automations.
Step 3: Select the Workflow
Click the workflow you want to export. Ensure it’s the latest version and runs correctly.
Step 4: Export as JSON
At the top-right, click ⋯ (Options) → Export → JSON.
Your browser will download a .json file — typically named after your workflow.
Step 5: Store or Share
You can now store this file safely or import it elsewhere.
How to Import a Workflow JSON File
To re-import a JSON file back into n8n:
- Go to Workflows → Import → From File
- Upload your
.jsonworkflow file - Adjust credentials and environment variables as needed
- Save and test the workflow
Best Practices & Common Pitfalls
Best Practices
- Keep JSON backups organized by project or environment.
- Commit exported files to a version control system.
- Validate JSON integrity before import.
- Exclude sensitive credentials from exports.
- Use environment variables for secrets.
Common Pitfalls
- Forgetting that credentials aren’t exported by default.
- Importing outdated JSON versions.
- Missing dependencies (e.g., APIs or credentials) during import.
- Using local-only nodes that may not exist in other instances.
Performance, Cost & Security Considerations
- Performance: Exporting JSON is lightweight; it doesn’t affect runtime performance.
- Cost: Local exports are free. n8n Cloud users might consider automation credits if using API-based exports.
- Security: Avoid sharing exports publicly if they include references to sensitive endpoints or tokens. Always sanitize before sharing.
Need enterprise-grade security or automated backups? Contact us for workflow management solutions.
Real-World Use Case: Migrating from Local to Cloud
A development team built several workflows in a local n8n instance for testing. To deploy them to n8n Cloud, they:
- Exported each workflow as JSON locally.
- Imported them into the cloud instance.
- Re-linked environment credentials using n8n’s built-in credential manager.
Result: Seamless migration with zero data loss and consistent automation performance.
.png)
FAQs
1. How do I export a workflow in n8n?
Go to Workflows → Select Workflow → Export → JSON. The file will download automatically.
2. Where are n8n workflows stored?
By default, workflows are stored in the n8n database. Exports create a JSON copy externally.
3. Are credentials included in exports?
No, credentials are excluded for security. You’ll need to re-add them after import.
4. How do I back up all workflows?
Use the n8n CLI or REST API to script automatic exports at intervals.
5. Can I migrate workflows between instances?
Yes — export from one instance, then import into another using the JSON file.
6. What’s inside a workflow JSON?
Metadata, node settings, and execution data — everything except credentials.
Automation becomes powerful when it’s portable — exporting your n8n workflows as JSON makes every idea reusable, shareable, and future-proof.
Conclusion
Exporting your n8n workflows as JSON isn’t just about portability — it’s about control, transparency, and scalability. With a single JSON file, you can replicate complex automations, migrate environments, or safeguard your workflows against loss.
As your automation stack grows, maintaining clean, versioned exports will help ensure every workflow remains reliable, auditable, and ready for deployment anywhere.
If you’re managing multiple n8n instances or planning migrations, taking time to understand workflow exports today saves countless hours tomorrow.
