How to Set Up n8n Locally with Docker Desktop:

This complete beginner's guide walks through every step to prepare your computer, install Docker Desktop, and run n8n locally with persistent storage.

1. Check System Requirements and Enable Virtualization

Docker requires hardware virtualization enabled in your computer's BIOS/UEFI to run containers.

Check on Windows:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click the Performance tab, then select CPU.
3. Look at the bottom-right for Virtualization: Enabled. If disabled, enable Intel VT-x / AMD-V in your BIOS.
4. Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:

powershell
   wsl --install