Overview
The Basic FTP node's "Upload" operation allows you to upload a file from n8n to a remote FTP server. This is useful for automating the transfer of files—such as reports, images, or backups—from your workflows directly to an FTP location. Common scenarios include:
- Uploading generated documents to a partner's FTP server.
- Backing up data files to a remote server.
- Automating the delivery of exports or logs.
Example:
After generating a PDF report in your workflow, use this node to upload the PDF to a specified folder on your company's FTP server.
Properties
| Name | Type | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Binary Property | String | The name of the binary property in the input item that contains the file data to upload. |
| Path | String | The destination path (including filename) on the FTP server where the file will be saved. |
Output
- The output is a JSON object containing the result of the upload operation as returned by the FTP client library.
- No additional fields are added unless the FTP library returns them.
- No binary data is output for the upload operation; only the status/result of the upload is provided.
Example output:
{
"json": {
// Response from the FTP server after uploading the file
}
}
Dependencies
- External Service: Requires access to an FTP server.
- Credentials: You must configure "basicFtpApi" credentials in n8n, including host, port, username, password, and any TLS/SSL options if needed.
- n8n Configuration: No special environment variables required beyond standard credential setup.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues:
- Invalid Credentials: If the FTP login fails, check your username, password, and host details.
- Path Errors: If the specified "Path" does not exist or is invalid, the upload will fail. Ensure the directory exists and you have write permissions.
- Binary Property Not Found: If the specified "Binary Property" does not exist in the input item, the node will throw an error. Make sure the property name matches exactly.
- Connection Issues: Network problems or incorrect port/security settings can prevent connection to the FTP server.
Error Messages:
The operation "upload" is not supported!– This should not occur unless the node is misconfigured.- Errors related to missing binary data or failed uploads will be included in the output if "Continue On Fail" is enabled, otherwise they will stop the workflow.