---
ref: tool:n8n/run-workflow
name: Run a workflow
company: company:n8n
workflows: []
access: [mcp]
tags: [capability:automate-workflows, category:automation, has:mcp]
docs: https://docs.n8n.io/connect/connect-to-n8n-mcp-server/mcp-server-tools-reference
updated: 2026-09-27
---

# Run a workflow

Starts one run of an n8n workflow, passing chat, form or webhook input to its trigger, and returns the execution ID without waiting for it to finish.

Set `executionMode` to `production` to run the published version, which works
with Webhook, Chat Trigger, Form Trigger and Schedule Trigger nodes, or to
`manual` to test the current draft. If the workflow has more than one eligible
trigger, or its trigger needs input, name the trigger in `triggerNodeName`,
which is required whenever you pass `inputs`. Check the outcome with
`get_workflow_execution`. Only workflows enabled for MCP access can run, and
multi-step forms or human-in-the-loop steps aren't supported.

## Set up

Use the first option your agent supports.

### MCP (official, remote)

Add this server to your agent's MCP settings, then sign in when asked.

```json
{ "mcpServers": { "n8n": { "url": "https://{your-n8n-domain}/mcp-server/http" } } }
```

Call the MCP tool `execute_workflow`.

Server URL: https://{your-n8n-domain}/mcp-server/http

Before doing anything else, make one read-only call to confirm access.

## Rules

- Ask the user before anything that sends messages, costs money, or changes data.
- Never print API keys.