How can I enable Node.js modules in an n8n Function node on Windows?

You’ll need to enable module imports for the Code (Function) node because, by default, n8n restricts the usage of Node.js modules for security reasons.

How to Allow Modules

1. Built-in Modules
   By default, even built-in Node.js modules (like fs or crypto) might be restricted. You can allow them by setting the environment variable. For example, to allow all built-in modules, run:

   In Command Prompt:

   CMDCopied
   set NODE_FUNCTION_ALLOW_BUILTIN=*
   npm start

   In PowerShell:

   POWERSHELLCopied
   $env:NODE_FUNCTION_ALLOW_BUILTIN = '*'
   npm start

2. External Modules
   If you want to use external modules (like moment, lodash, etc.) in your function node, you must enable them too. For example, if you want to allow moment and lodash:

   Command Prompt:

   CMDCopied
   set NODE_FUNCTION_ALLOW_EXTERNAL=moment,lodash
   npm start

   PowerShell:

   POWERSHELLCopied
   $env:NODE_FUNCTION_ALLOW_EXTERNAL = 'moment,lodash'
   npm start

Additional Tips

• Combine Both Variables:
  If you need both, you can set each variable before starting n8n.

• Persist Environment Variables:
  On Windows, you can also set these variables permanently via the System Properties or within a script that starts n8n so you don’t have to set them manually every time.

• Module Installation:
  Make sure that any external modules you intend to import are installed in the appropriate node_modules directory of n8n.

After setting the environment variables, restart n8n and your Function node should be able to import and use the modules as intended.

This should resolve your issue running Node.js modules in your Function node on Windows. Happy automating!