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.

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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