This automated n8n workflow enables launching AWS EC2 instances directly from a Google Sheets document. Users can specify instance details (e.g., region, instance type, key pair) in a Google Sheet, triggering the workflow to create EC2 instances via the AWS API. The workflow updates the sheet with instance information and sends confirmation emails.
Fundamental Aspects
- Google Sheets Trigger: Initiates the workflow when a new row is added or updated in the Google Sheet.
- Extract Instance Details: Parses region, instance type, key pair name, and instance name from the sheet.
- Validate Inputs: Checks for required fields and valid AWS configurations.
- Launch EC2 Instance: Uses the AWS EC2 API to launch the specified instance.
- Update Google Sheet: Adds instance ID and status to the sheet.
- Send Confirmation Email: Notifies the user via email with instance details.
Setup Instructions
- Import the Workflow into n8n: Download the workflow JSON and import it via the n8n interface.
- Configure API Credentials:
- Set up Google Sheets API credentials with appropriate permissions.
- Configure AWS IAM credentials with EC2 launch permissions.
- Configure SMTP credentials for email notifications.
- Prepare Google Sheet: Create a sheet with columns for region, instance type, key pair name, instance name, instance ID, and status.
- Run the Workflow: Activate the Google Sheets trigger and test by adding a row with instance details.
- Verify Responses: Check the Google Sheet for updated instance IDs and emails for confirmation.
- Adjust Parameters: Fine-tune AWS region settings or email templates as needed.
Technical Dependencies
- Google Sheets API: For reading and writing data.
- AWS EC2 API: For launching and managing instances.
- SMTP Service: For sending confirmation emails.
- n8n: For workflow automation and integration.
Customization Possibilities
- Add Instance Types: Support additional EC2 instance types.
- Enhance Validation: Add checks for AWS limits or quotas.
- Support Tags: Include custom tags for launched instances.
- Add Logging: Integrate with a logging service for workflow tracking.
- Customize Emails: Adjust email content or add attachments.