02 · triggers
HTTP entrypoint — forms, APIs, and other systems POST/GET into n8n.
When to use it
Anytime an external system must start a run. Pair with Respond to Webhook when the caller needs a JSON body back.
Writeup
HTTP entrypoint — forms, APIs, and other systems POST/GET into n8n. Anytime an external system must start a run. Pair with Respond to Webhook when the caller needs a JSON body back.
Step by step — how to wire it
01
Add Webhook
Trigger → Webhook. Method POST, Path e.g. hello.
02
Choose response mode
Simple notify flows: When Last Node Finishes. APIs that need a body: Using Respond to Webhook node.
03
Activate
Toggle Active to get a stable Production URL (Test URL only works while listening).
04
Call it
POST JSON from curl, Postman, or your site form to the Production URL.
How it functions
Path + method
You set HTTP Method (usually POST) and a path like contact or intent. n8n exposes Test and Production URLs.
Response modes
lastNode finishes when the last node ends; responseNode waits for a Respond to Webhook node — use that for custom JSON.
Payload shape
JSON bodies typically land under $json.body on later nodes.
Used for
Used for 1
Contact forms and lead intake
Used for 2
Stripe / GitHub / custom app callbacks
Used for 3
Starting human-in-the-loop or CRM routing flows
Tips
Never commit secret Production URLs with auth tokens in public repos.
Rate-limit your public forms — webhooks are an open door if the path leaks.