Automated Server Setup Workflow (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP)

This n8n workflow provides a framework for automating the setup of a LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP) stack on a remote server using SSH commands. While the current JSON only defines the initial structure, it's designed to be expanded into a comprehensive server provisioning tool.

What it does

This workflow, in its current form, sets up the foundational elements for a server provisioning process:

1. Manual Trigger: Initiates the workflow execution when manually triggered. This is ideal for on-demand server setups.
2. Edit Fields (Set): A placeholder node, likely intended for defining server parameters (e.g., IP address, user, credentials, specific software versions, or configuration details) before executing SSH commands.
3. SSH Connection: Establishes a secure shell connection to a remote server. This node is the core component for sending commands to install and configure the LAMP stack.
4. Sticky Note: A documentation node to add comments or instructions within the workflow itself.

Prerequisites/Requirements

• n8n Instance: A running n8n instance to host and execute the workflow.
• SSH Credentials: Access to a remote Linux server via SSH (username, password, or SSH key).
• Remote Linux Server: An unconfigured or freshly provisioned Linux server where the LAMP stack will be installed.

Setup/Usage

1. Import the Workflow:
   • Download the provided JSON file.
   • In your n8n instance, click on "Workflows" in the left sidebar.
   • Click "New" and then "Import from JSON".
   • Paste the JSON content or upload the file.
2. Configure SSH Credentials:
   • Click on the "SSH" node.
   • In the "Credentials" section, click "Create New".
   • Provide the necessary SSH credentials (Host, User, Authentication Method - Password or Private Key).
3. Define Server Parameters (Edit Fields):
   • Click on the "Edit Fields" node.
   • Add any necessary fields that will define the server setup, such as serverIp, mysqlRootPassword, phpVersion, etc. These values can then be used in subsequent SSH commands.
4. Expand SSH Commands:
   • The "SSH" node currently acts as a connection point. You will need to add specific SSH commands to install Apache, MySQL, PHP, and configure them.
   • Examples of commands you might add to the SSH node (or subsequent SSH nodes):
     • sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y (Update package lists)
     • sudo apt install apache2 -y (Install Apache)
     • sudo apt install mysql-server -y (Install MySQL)
     • sudo mysql_secure_installation (Secure MySQL - often interactive, consider scripting)
     • sudo apt install php libapache2-mod-php php-mysql -y (Install PHP and modules)
     • sudo systemctl restart apache2 (Restart Apache)
     • sudo ufw allow 'Apache Full' (Configure firewall)
5. Test the Workflow:
   • After configuring, click "Execute Workflow" to run it.
   • Monitor the output of the SSH node to ensure commands are executing correctly on your remote server.

This workflow provides a robust starting point for automating your server provisioning tasks with n8n.