Read/Write Files from Disk
The Read/Write Files from Disk node is your native bridge to the server's local file system. It empowers your automated workflows to seamlessly read configuration files, stream large binary documents, and perform full directory management (Create, Rename, Delete) natively within the nLink automation engine.
What can you do with Read/Write Files from Disk?
Complete File System Management
Execute native Read, Write, Append, Delete, Mkdir, and Rename operations on your local hard disk directly from the visual workflow canvas.
Zero-Copy Stream Architecture
Built for extreme production stability. Reads and writes bypass heavy RAM buffering by streaming data directly through kernel I/O, providing flawless Out-Of-Memory (OOM) protection.
Universal Binary Support
Write standard UTF-8 text logs instantly, or ingest and write complex Base64-encoded binary data (like images and PDFs) generated from upstream workflow nodes.
Detailed Usage & Configuration
The Read/Write Files from Disk node provides ultimate control over the local file system hosting the nLink engine. Whether automating daily log backups, downloading massive binary payloads, or structuring report directories, this node handles heavy I/O operations securely.
1. High-Performance Data Streaming
Unlike standard automation nodes that crash when handling massive files, this node is hardened for production:
- Reading Data: When reading from the disk, the node enforces a strict 50MB safety limit. It utilizes stream-based Base64 encoding to pipe the file directly into your workflow's JSON payload without spiking the server's memory.
- Writing & Appending: Choose between standard Text (UTF-8) for CSVs/Logs, or Base64 for binary documents. The engine performs a forced physical disk sync (
fsync) upon completion, guaranteeing absolute data integrity for the next node in the pipeline.
2. Automated Directory Maintenance
Orchestrate complex folder structures dynamically during execution:
- Create Folder (Mkdir): Dynamically generate nested directory trees on-the-fly (e.g.,
/var/data/exports/2026). - Rename & Move: Provide a
New File Pathto instantly rename files or seamlessly migrate them across disk directories. - Delete & Clean: Automatically sweep obsolete files or wipe entire temporary directories post-execution. The node intelligently detects the path type automatically.