Git backup lite for free?

Feature Requests
1

The idea is:

I would love to have a lite Git-based backup feature in all n8n Edition (also community edition). This would allow users to back up their entire n8n instance—including encrypted credentials, workflows, and other configuration files—directly to a Git repository.

My use case:

My (single user community edition user) primary goal is to ensure easy backups and recoveries without relying on manual exports or more complex (paid) version-control features. If a local setup fails or I want to spin up a new environment (in a desaster recovery case), n8n could automatically pull these backups from the Git repository. If the correct passphrase is provided, credentials and all other settings would be restored seamlessly. Otherwise, at least the workflows and basic instance configurations would be recovered.

I think it would be beneficial to add this because:

  • Data Security & Convenience: A quick, automated approach to ensure that all important data (workflows, credentials, configurations) are safe and restorable.
  • Partial Restore: Even if the user doesn’t have the passphrase, they can still restore basic settings and workflows.
  • Clear Free/low cost vs. Enterprise Plan Differentiation: The Community “lite” backup feature wouldn’t conflict with the more advanced Git-based version control in paid plans (e.g., UI for commits, branching, etc.).
  • Streamlined Onboarding: Users can easily replicate or migrate their setup across multiple environments with minimal effort.

Additionally, while it is currently possible to orchestrate backups via an n8n workflow, this approach does not provide an easy way to fully restore the entire instance. A built-in Git-based backup feature would automatically handle configuration, credentials, and workflows in a more integrated manner, ensuring a smooth recovery process.

Any resources to support this?

  • A free GitLab/GitHub account would suffice as a remote repository solution. :smiley:

Are you willing to work on this?

I’m willing to help with feedback, testing, and any necessary discussions. Unfortunately, I don’t have enough development experience myself to implement the Git integration and credentials encryption feature, but I’m happy to collaborate however I can.