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Interact with Docker
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Overview

This node allows you to interact with Docker directly from your workflow. Specifically, the "Run" operation lets you run a Docker container based on a specified image and command. This is useful for automating containerized tasks such as running scripts, processing data, or launching services within isolated environments.

Common scenarios include:

  • Running a one-off container to execute a script or command.
  • Automating container lifecycle management in CI/CD pipelines.
  • Integrating Docker-based tools or services into broader workflows.

For example, you can specify an image like ubuntu and a command array like ["echo", "Hello World"] to run a container that prints a message.

Properties

Name Meaning
Image The Docker image to use for running the container (e.g., ubuntu, node:14-alpine).
Command A JSON array representing the command and its arguments to run inside the container.

Output

The node outputs JSON data containing the results of the container execution:

  • stdout: The standard output stream content produced by the container's command.
  • stderr: The standard error stream content produced by the container's command.

This output provides the textual result of the command run inside the container.

Dependencies

  • Requires a Docker environment accessible via API.
  • Needs credentials providing access to the Docker daemon (such as a Docker socket or remote API authentication).
  • Uses the dockerode Node.js library internally to communicate with Docker.

Troubleshooting

  • Error: No credentials got returned!
    Ensure that valid Docker credentials are configured and connected to the node.

  • Error: Command must be an array!
    The "Command" property must be a valid JSON array. For example, ["ls", "-la"]. Passing a string or invalid JSON will cause this error.

  • Docker pull failures or connection errors
    Verify that the Docker daemon is running and accessible from the environment where n8n runs. Also, check network connectivity if using a remote Docker host.

  • Container execution hangs or no output
    Confirm that the command and image are correct and that the command completes properly inside the container.

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