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Debug n8n Workflows Locally

Running n8n locally via Docker is the best way to build complex workflow automations. However, when your workflow relies on a Webhook Trigger Node (e.g., waiting for a Typeform submission or a Slack command), n8n generates a localhost URL. Third-party SaaS tools cannot POST to your local machine.

Step 1: Extract the n8n Test URL

Inside your n8n workflow, double-click the Webhook Node and copy the Test URL:

http://localhost:5678/webhook-test/1a2b3c4d-5e6f-7g8h-9i0j

Note: Always use the "Test URL" while building, and the "Production URL" when your workflow is active.

Step 2: Establish the Tunnel

Run the Hookmetry CLI to map a public, secure edge URL directly to that specific n8n node.

hookmetry listen --forward localhost:5678/webhook-test/1a2b3c4d-5e6f-7g8h-9i0j

Step 3: Build with Live Data

Paste the public Hookmetry Forwarding URL into Typeform or Slack. When an external event occurs, the payload traverses the tunnel and visually triggers the n8n execution graph in real-time. You can map variables and build out your logic using real production data instead of mock payloads.

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