How to Deploy Node-RED on Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi is one of the most popular platforms for IoT projects due to its affordability and flexibility. When combined with Node-RED, it becomes a powerful tool for automating workflows, connecting sensors, and building real-time dashboards.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to deploy Node-RED on Raspberry Pi step by step, from installation to first flow setup.

Why Use Node-RED on Raspberry Pi?

• Lightweight and perfect for IoT edge computing
• Works with GPIO pins to control sensors and devices
• Can be integrated with databases, cloud platforms, and dashboards
• Beginner-friendly drag-and-drop flow editor

👉 If you are new to Node-RED, first check our Beginner’s Guide to Node-RED.

Step 1: Prepare Your Raspberry Pi

1. Download and install Raspberry Pi OS on your SD card
2. Connect Raspberry Pi to your network (Ethernet or Wi-Fi)
3. Open a terminal or SSH into the device

Step 2: Install Node-RED

Node-RED comes pre-installed in Raspberry Pi OS, but it’s recommended to install the latest version. Run this command:

bash <(curl -sL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/node-red/linux-installers/master/deb/update-nodejs-and-nodered)

This script installs Node.js, Node-RED, and required dependencies.

Step 3: Start Node-RED

After installation, start Node-RED with:

node-red-start

Access the editor in your browser at:

http://<raspberrypi-ip>:1880

Step 4: Enable Auto Start

To make Node-RED run automatically on boot:

sudo systemctl enable nodered.service

Step 5: Deploy First Flow

1. Open the Node-RED editor
2. Drag an Inject node and a Debug node
3. Connect them and deploy
4. Click the inject button to see output in debug tab

👉 Next, you can integrate with dashboards — check our guide on IoT Grafana Dashboards.

For official documentation, visit Node-RED Raspberry Pi Guide

FAQs

Q1: Can I use Node-RED on Raspberry Pi Zero?
Yes, but performance may be limited for heavy flows.

Q2: Do I need coding skills to use Node-RED?
No, Node-RED uses a drag-and-drop interface, but JavaScript helps for advanced logic.

Q3: Can Node-RED work offline on Raspberry Pi?
Yes, it runs locally and doesn’t require internet unless you connect to cloud services.

Conclusion

Deploying Node-RED on Raspberry Pi is one of the best ways to start with IoT and automation projects. Within minutes, you can install, configure, and run workflows for sensors, devices, and dashboards.

👉 Begin with our Beginner’s Guide to Node-RED and then explore IoT Grafana Dashboards to take your projects to the next level.