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Connecting to n8n (Detailed Guide)

This guide provides more details on setting up your n8n Connection and configuring your Workflows for mobile access.

Setting Up n8n​

1. Enable API Access​

Tellflow uses the n8n API to list your workflows and show details.

  • Go to your n8n Settings > API.
  • Enable the API and Copy your API Key.

2. Configure the Mobile App Connection​

In the Tellflow mobile app:

  • Tap the Settings gear icon.
  • Select Connections.
  • Tap Add Connection (+).
  • Name: Give it a name (e.g., "Personal n8n").
  • Instance URL: Your n8n base URL (e.g., https://n8n.example.com).
  • API Key: Paste your n8n API Key here.
  • Verify: Tap Test Connection to ensure it's working.

3. Add Your Chatbot (Webhook)​

To add a specific workflow to your chat list:

  • In the app, go to the Workflows tab (bottom bar).
  • You will see a list of your n8n workflows.
  • Tap the workflow you want to use as a chatbot.
  • Identify the Webhook Node that receives the messages.
  • Configure the Webhook Path (e.g., /chat-app).
  • Webhook Base URL: This defaults to your instance URL but can be custom.
  • Save your configuration.

Workflow Preparation (n8n Side)​

The Webhook Node​

Your n8n workflow MUST start with a Webhook Node.

  • HTTP Method: POST
  • Authentication: None (or use a header key if you prefer, then configure it in the app).
  • Body Content Type: JSON (Tellflow sends message and session_id).

The Response (Respond to Webhook)​

To send a message back to the app:

  • Use the Respond to Webhook Node.
  • Return a JSON object with at least a content field: 
    {
      "content": "Hello! How can I help you today?"
    }
  • Tellflow will render this as a standard chat bubble.

[!IMPORTANT] Always return content (string) for basic text responses. For advanced content (buttons, forms, cards), see Interactive Messages.

Using session_id for Context​

Tellflow sends a unique session_id with every message. Use this with n8n's Memory or a Database to keep track of previous messages in the conversation.

Troubleshooting Connectivity​

  • SSL Issues: Ensure your n8n instance has a valid SSL certificate (HTTPS).
  • API Key Error: Double-check that your API Key is correct and has "Workflows: Read" permissions (at least).
  • Webhook Not Found: Ensure your workflow is Active in n8n.