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Python Runtime

Execute Python scripts using system Python runtime

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Overview

This node allows you to execute Python scripts using the system's Python runtime environment. It supports two main operations: running a Python script file or executing inline Python code directly. This is useful for automating tasks, data processing, or integrating Python logic within an n8n workflow without needing a separate Python environment setup inside n8n.

A common scenario is running existing Python scripts stored on your system with optional command-line arguments. For example, you might run a data analysis script and capture its output for further processing in your workflow.

Properties

Name Meaning
File Path The full path to the Python script file you want to execute (required for "Run File").
Command Arguments Optional string of arguments to pass to the Python script when executed.
Python Path Path to the Python executable to use (defaults to python3). Useful if multiple versions are installed.

Output

The node outputs JSON objects containing the following fields:

  • stdout: The trimmed standard output from the Python script execution.
  • stderr: The trimmed standard error output from the Python script execution.
  • success: A boolean indicating whether the script ran successfully (true) or failed (false).
  • error: Present only if the execution failed; contains the error message.

No binary data is produced by this node.

Example output JSON:

{
  "stdout": "Hello from Python!",
  "stderr": "",
  "success": true
}

Dependencies

  • Requires access to a system Python runtime executable (default python3).
  • No external API keys or services are needed.
  • The node uses Node.js child process utilities to spawn Python processes.

Troubleshooting

  • Common issues:

    • Incorrect file path: Ensure the specified Python script file exists and the path is correct.
    • Python executable not found: If the default python3 is not available, specify the correct path in the "Python Path" property.
    • Script errors: Any Python exceptions or syntax errors will appear in the stderr output.

  • Error messages:

    • If the node fails to execute the script, it returns an error message in the output's error field along with any captured stdout and stderr.
    • To continue workflow execution despite errors, enable the node's "Continue On Fail" option.

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