Secure and Flexible n8n Deployment with Docker, Nginx, and Cloudflare Tunnel

In case you want to secure n8n, this docker compose configuration is for my production setup.

Docker Compose setup for running n8n securely, with:

• Local access via HTTPS using Nginx + Let’s Encrypt
• Remote access using Cloudflare Tunnel
• Optional components like PostgreSQL and Qdrant for advanced use cases

It’s built for home labbers, self-hosters, and remote workers who want flexible, secure access to their automation platform without exposing unnecessary ports to the internet.

Why This Docker Compose File?

This setup is designed to:

• 🔒 Secure your n8n instance with HTTPS using Let’s Encrypt automatically.
• 🛡️ Give you the choice to access it either:
  • Locally via Nginx reverse proxy with HTTPS
  • Remotely via Cloudflare Tunnel (no port forwarding!)
• 📦 Seamlessly integrate n8n with PostgreSQL and Qdrant for database and vector search support.
• ♻️ Automatically handle SSL certificates and renewals with nginx-proxy + acme-companion.

Components in the Setup

Service Purpose n8n The main automation platform postgres Database for n8n to persist workflows, credentials, etc. qdrant Vector database for advanced AI use cases with n8n nginx-proxy Handles reverse proxy and SSL termination locally acme-companion Automatically manages Let’s Encrypt certificates cloudflared Tunnels your n8n securely to the internet (Cloudflare Zero Trust)

When to Use Nginx vs Cloudflared

Scenario Use Nginx Use Cloudflared Access n8n only inside home/office ✅ ❌ Access n8n securely from anywhere ✅ ✅ Want to avoid port forwarding/router changes ❌ ✅ Need local LAN speed for scripts ✅ Optional

💡 If you’re only using Cloudflare Tunnel, you can disable or remove the nginx-proxy and acme-companion services.

💡 If you’re only using local access, you can disable or remove the cloudflared service.

How to Use

1. Clone or copy the docker-compose.yml file and place it in a folder:

mkdir n8n-stack && cd n8n-stack
nano docker-compose.yml
Paste the full file (as shown in this article) and save it.

2. Point Your Domain

Make sure n8n.syncbricks.com (or your domain) points to your server’s public IP if using Nginx/Let’s Encrypt.

If you’re using Cloudflare Tunnel, your DNS will be auto-handled.

3. Start the Stack

docker compose up -d
Everything will be created:

• n8n starts and waits for its dependencies.
• Nginx handles reverse proxy.
• Certs are automatically requested and installed.
• Cloudflare Tunnel securely exposes your instance.

4. Access Your n8n Instance

• 🖥️ Local HTTPS Access: https://n8n.syncbricks.com
• 🌍 Remote Access (via Cloudflare): Same URL, no port forwarding needed!

🧽 Optional Cleanup

➖ To disable Nginx (Cloudflared only):

Remove or comment out the following services:

nginx-proxy:
acme-companion:
And remove proxy from n8n's networks.

➖ To disable Cloudflare Tunnel (Local HTTPS only):

Remove or comment out:

cloudflared:
🔐 Bonus Tips

• Add Basic Auth in Nginx config to prevent unauthorized access.
• Integrate fail2ban or CrowdSec if exposing locally.
• Keep your domain protected behind Cloudflare Proxy (orange cloud).

📦 Summary

This Docker Compose setup gives you a secure, production-ready deployment of n8n for both:

• 🧪 Home labs and internal networks
• 🌍 Public access via Cloudflare, no hassle with firewalls

You are in full control: run it how you want.

Here is Full Tutorial

• Youtube
• Udemy