n8n, Coolify or Dokploy on a VPS: which to install
Three tools for a VPS, three different needs: automating flows, deploying applications, or simply running a few containers.
n8n, Coolify and Dokploy can all be installed on a Linux VPS, but they do not answer the same need. n8n automates data flows. Coolify and Dokploy are panels that deploy your applications as containers. The right choice depends on what you want to run, not on trends.
- n8n automates flows: on a VPS it runs best with Docker Compose.
- Coolify and Dokploy deploy applications from Git, through a web panel.
- A panel adds RAM use, maintenance and an attack surface: install it only if it saves you time.
n8n: automate, without a deployment panel
n8n is a flow automation tool, with nodes for email, APIs and databases. On a VPS it is usually started with Docker Compose: one container for n8n, optionally a PostgreSQL database, and a reverse proxy for HTTPS on the webhooks.
- Suited when n8n is the only service, or comes with a few simple tools.
- The default internal port is 5678; it should not be exposed directly, but behind a reverse proxy in HTTPS.
- Webhooks need a stable public address: a subdomain pointed to the VPS is enough.
Coolify and Dokploy: deploy from a panel
Coolify and Dokploy are open source platforms installed on your server. They manage containers, the reverse proxy, certificates and deployments from a browser. You connect a Git repository and the tool builds the application.
- Useful if you deploy several applications from Git repositories, with frequent updates.
- Each panel uses RAM and disk on top of your applications: measure it before sizing the VPS.
- The panel becomes an attack surface: a strong password, limited access, regular updates.
Which VPS to start with
For n8n alone, the Mini plan is often enough to start: 8 GB of RAM, 2 vCPU and 40 GB of storage for 4.99 EUR per month. A deployment panel plus several applications needs more room: the Essentiel plan, with 16 GB of RAM, 4 vCPU and 80 GB for 9.99 EUR per month, is more comfortable. Real needs are checked with free -h and docker stats, depending on your workflows.
- n8n alone or with a database: Mini plan, to validate according to the number of executions.
- Panel and several applications: Essentiel plan, to validate according to the images and databases.
- Measure for a week before deciding, rather than choosing a plan at random.
Frequently asked questions
Can I install n8n inside Coolify or Dokploy?
Yes, both can deploy the n8n Docker image. The panel then handles HTTPS and updates, but you remain responsible for the data and the database backups.
Coolify or Dokploy: what is the practical difference?
Both answer the same need: deploying applications on a server from a web interface. Compare their documentation, their update pace and the application templates before choosing.
Do I need a domain name for a panel?
It is not required for the installation, but it is safer: a subdomain with an HTTPS certificate avoids sending credentials in clear text. The free ACLClouds subdomain can be enough.