Plain-AyI
← All projects
App builders & workflows

Self-hosted AI Starter Kit

One setup that runs n8n automations with local AI models on your own computer, for private AI workflows.

What it does

This starter kit from n8n bundles several tools so you can build AI automations that run entirely on your own machine. It combines n8n (a low-code automation builder), Ollama (for running AI models locally), Qdrant (a database for searching information by meaning) and PostgreSQL (a general database).

Once running, you open n8n in your browser and can build things like scheduling agents, private PDF summaries or Slack bots, keeping your data in-house. It includes a sample chat workflow to start with.

Its makers say it's meant for trying ideas and proofs of concept rather than production use.

Who it's for

Tinkerers and small teams who want to build private AI automations without sending data to the cloud.

Can I use it without coding?

With some setup. Needs Docker and a few terminal commands. A graphics card makes the AI models faster. New to this? Start here.

Can I run it?

Cost
FreeNothing to pay or sign up for.
Runs on
Mac, Linux
Privacy
Runs on your own device: your data stays with you
API key
Not needed

Try it

  1. Install Docker and download this starter kit.
  2. Start it with Docker Compose, choosing the version for your graphics card or for a plain CPU.
  3. Open n8n in your browser and run the included chat workflow.

Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?

Before you install

  • Only download from the official GitHub page. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
  • License (Apache-2.0): Permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
  • More on staying safe

Where people are talking about it