Easy Tech TutsHow to Export Your n8n Workflow Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Exporting a workflow turns your automation into a portable JSON file you can back up, share with teammates, or move into a different n8n environment. This guide covers downloading a full workflow blueprint, copying specific node selections, and what does and doesn't come along with the export.
01Open the workflow you want to back up
Load the specific automation canvas you plan to export from your n8n dashboard.
02Open the file operations menu
Click the options settings icon to reveal the file management dropdown.
03Download the workflow as JSON
Select the download action to convert the entire automation tree into a structured JSON file.
04Save it somewhere safe
Store the exported file in a local backup folder or a shared drive so you can restore it later if needed.
05Optionally copy just a section
You can also select specific node groups on the canvas and copy their raw JSON to your clipboard instead of exporting the whole workflow.
06Verify the file before migrating
Open the exported JSON to confirm the structure looks complete before using it in a different environment.
Frequently asked questions
Does exporting a workflow include my credentials?
No, sensitive account credentials are kept separate from the exported JSON, so anyone importing the file will need to set up their own authentication.
Can I export just part of a workflow?
Yes, you can select specific nodes on the canvas and copy their JSON to your clipboard instead of downloading the entire workflow.
What file format does n8n export to?
Workflows are exported as standard .json files, which makes them easy to version, share, or store alongside other project files.
Should I back up workflows before a version upgrade?
Yes, exporting your active workflows before major upgrades or workspace cleanups is a good safety habit.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
