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.