n8n-cli

Automate n8n instance administration for workflows, credentials, and executions via CLI.

Updated May 6, 2026

Search Tags:#automation #api #cli #credentials #n8n #workflows

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/IITApurba/Distributed-Workflow-Execution-Engine --skill n8n-cli-iitapurba

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: n8n-cli
Source: https://github.com/IITApurba/Distributed-Workflow-Execution-Engine/tree/main/packages/%40n8n/cli/skills/n8n-cli
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/IITApurba/Distributed-Workflow-Execution-Engine --skill n8n-cli-iitapurba

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Managing an n8n instance from the command line can be error-prone and repetitive. This Skill provides a unified CLI interface to interact with n8n's REST API, enabling scriptable administration of workflows, credentials, and executions.

Core Features & Use Cases

CLI-based workflow management: list, create, update, activate/deactivate, and delete workflows.
Credential handling: inspect and manage credential metadata, and securely store API keys.
Instance configuration: set the base URL and API key via commands, config files, or environment variables for automation.
Use cases include automated provisioning of environments, scripted maintenance tasks, and CI/CD-driven workflow deployments.

Quick Start

Frequently Asked Questions about n8n-cli

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I manage n8n workflows from the command line?▼

You can manage n8n workflows from the command line by using a CLI interface to interact with the n8n REST API. This allows you to script the listing, creation, activation, and deletion of workflows for automated environment provisioning.

Can I automate n8n credential management in a CI/CD pipeline?▼

Yes, you can automate n8n credential management in a CI/CD pipeline by applying scriptable CLI commands. This enables you to inspect credential metadata and securely store API keys during automated deployments.

What is the best way to script n8n instance administration across environments?▼

The best way to script n8n instance administration is using a unified CLI interface that communicates with the REST API. It supports configuration via command flags, config files, or environment variables for development, staging, and production environments.

Does the n8n CLI require knowledge of specific command syntax?▼

Yes, automating administrative control of an n8n instance via the CLI requires knowledge of the n8n-cli command syntax. This is necessary to properly execute workflow, credential, and execution management tasks.

How do I configure the n8n API key and instance URL for terminal access?▼

You can configure the n8n API key and instance URL for terminal access by running the login command. Configuration can also be applied via command flags, config files, or environment variables to support automation.