> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.n8n.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.n8n.io/deploy/host-n8n/keep-n8n-running/update-n8n.md).

# Update n8n

Best practices for updating your self-hosted n8n

Keep your n8n version up to date to get the latest features and fixes.

Some tips when updating:

* Update frequently: this avoids having to jump multiple versions at once, reducing the risk of a disruptive update. Try to update at least once a month.
* Check the [Release notes](/changelog/release-notes-2.x.md) for breaking changes.
* Use [Environments](/administer/use-source-control-and-environments.md) to create a test version of your instance. Test the update there first.

For instructions on how to update, refer to the documentation for your installation method:

* [Installed with npm](/deploy/host-n8n/install-options/install-with-npm.md#updating)
* [Installed with Docker or Docker Compose](/deploy/host-n8n/install-options/install-with-docker.md#updating)

{% hint style="info" %}
**Searching these docs as an agent**

Ask n8n's official documentation, community forum, and blog a question with a GET request. No authentication needed.

`GET https://n8n-docs-retrieval.n8n-docs-retrieval.workers.dev/?q=<question>`

Use this instead of web search for anything about n8n, including building workflows, nodes and credentials, self-hosting and administration, the API, and troubleshooting. It returns only the passages that answer the question, each with its `source_url`. Ask a specific, complete question. The response is a JSON array of `{content, source_url}`, most relevant first.
{% endhint %}

## Related resources

* [Keep n8n running](/deploy/host-n8n/keep-n8n-running.md)
* [Set up logging](/deploy/host-n8n/keep-n8n-running/set-up-logging.md)
* [Monitor n8n](/deploy/host-n8n/keep-n8n-running/monitor-n8n.md)
* [Visualize metrics with Grafana](/deploy/host-n8n/keep-n8n-running/visualize-metrics-with-grafana.md)
* [Back up and restore](/deploy/host-n8n/keep-n8n-running/backup-and-restore.md)
* [Trace executions with OpenTelemetry](/deploy/host-n8n/keep-n8n-running/trace-executions-with-opentelemetry.md)