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Ops · n8n template
n8n Backup + Error Alerts: free workflow to back up n8n to GitHub
Self-hosting n8n means you own the backups. This free workflow saves every workflow to a private GitHub repo each night and emails you whenever any workflow fails, so problems never go unnoticed.
How the workflow runs
- Nightly scheduleRuns once a night.
- n8n APIExports every workflow as JSON.
- GitHubCommits changed workflows to a private repo, with history.
- Error triggerCatches failed runs in any workflow and emails you the error.
What you get
- Nightly backup of every workflow, with version history
- Email with the failed workflow name, node and error
- Restore any workflow from GitHub in a minute
What you need
- n8n with the public API enabled (API key)
- Private GitHub repo and token
- Gmail or any SMTP email
See the workflow
Set up in about 15 min
- Get the fileDownload the .json workflow and setup guide.
- ImportIn n8n, open a new workflow and choose Import from File.
- ConnectAdd your own accounts where the sticky notes point.
- ActivateRun once to test, then publish. It keeps running on its own.
Questions
Are credentials backed up?
No. Only workflow JSON is saved. Credentials stay inside n8n, which keeps your keys safe.
Does it work on n8n Cloud?
Yes, as long as the n8n API is available on your plan.
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