Simple File-Based Key-Value Store: Get Key

This n8n workflow implements a simple file-based key-value store for retrieving values. It reads a specified JSON file from a local directory (e.g., /home/node/.n8n/local-files/), extracts the value associated with a given key, and returns it—or a user-defined default if the key is missing or the file is empty. The workflow uses a manual trigger, processes input parameters via a function node, reads the file as binary, converts it to JSON, and outputs the resolved value.

Key benefits include zero external dependencies, no need for databases or cloud storage, and seamless integration into larger n8n automations via the 'Execute Workflow' node. Setup is straightforward: create the local-files folder with proper permissions, place JSON files named by workflow ID (e.g., 4711.json), and pipe config data (file, key, default) from another workflow.

Use cases: temporary caching of API results, storing user preferences or session data across executions, simple config management, or prototyping stateful logic. Pair it with the companion 'WriteKey' workflow for full CRUD-like operations. Ideal for self-hosted n8n environments, Docker setups, or any scenario needing quick, file-persistent storage.