# How to automatically trigger a node-red flow by external app using the API

**URL:** <https://discourse.nodered.org/t/how-to-automatically-trigger-a-node-red-flow-by-external-app-using-the-api/77703>\
**Category:** General\
**Tags:** node-red-dashboard\
**Created:** [19 April 2023 05:51 UTC](https://discourse.nodered.org/t/how-to-automatically-trigger-a-node-red-flow-by-external-app-using-the-api/77703 "2023-04-19T05:51:16Z")\
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**Author:** ![Colin](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/flex026/user_avatar/discourse.nodered.org/colin/32/17040_2.png) [@Colin](https://discourse.nodered.org/u/Colin)\
**Post date:** [19 April 2023 10:28 UTC](https://discourse.nodered.org/t/how-to-automatically-trigger-a-node-red-flow-by-external-app-using-the-api/77703/9 "2023-04-19T10:28:24Z")

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Look in the node red cookbook for examples on using http. But, as I said, using that method would require opening ports on your router, so you would also have to look at this FAQ post for advice on how to safely access node-red over the internet.

> [@Safely accessing Node-RED over the Internet](https://discourse.nodered.org/t/safely-accessing-node-red-over-the-internet/45024):
>
> Update 2025-02-19 The best advice for most people doing home automation is still: Don't expose Node-RED to the outside world! Where you really have to have some outside access, keep it as hands-off and restricted as possible. For example, using a Telegram bot. Also keep it as minimal as possible, e.g. Don't expose the Editor - EVER! If you want to provide remote control of your heating or the precious plants in your greenhouse, provide explicit controls with strong limits. Don't expose ever…

What don't you understand about using the email node.

As a beginner, I recommend watching this playlist: [Node-RED Essentials](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyNBB9VCLmo1hyO-4fIZ08gqFcXBkHy-6). The videos are done by the developers of node-red. They're nice & short and to the point. You will understand a whole lot more in about 1 hour. A small investment for a lot of gain.

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