RunPod & ComfyUI: Step-by-Step Installation Tutorial with Network Volume (Easy method) [2025]

Introduction

This tutorial provides a straightforward, step-by-step guide to installing ComfyUI on RunPod using a Network Volume. This method allows you to create a persistent storage disk that saves your entire ComfyUI setup, models, and files, making it easy to resume work without repetitive setups.

Step 1: Sign Up for RunPod

1. Visit the RunPod website.
2. Click on the sign-up button and complete the registration process.
3. Verify your email address if prompted.

Step 2: Create a Network Volume

1. Log in to your RunPod account.
2. Navigate to the dashboard and select a datacenter where you want to create your Network Volume.
3. Click on the option to create a new volume.
4. Choose the size of the volume based on your storage needs.
5. Confirm the creation of the Network Volume.

Step 3: Prepare the Pod

1. Go to the RunPod dashboard and select the option to create a new pod.
2. Choose your newly created Network Volume from the volume selection menu.
3. Select the GPU that suits your project requirements.
4. Pick a template for ComfyUI deployment. You can use the general template or a specific one for RTX5090/P6000 available at:
   • General template
   • RTX5090/P6000 template

Step 4: Deploy the Pod

1. Click on the deploy button.
2. Wait for the automatic ComfyUI installation to complete.
3. Once deployed, you will see a notification that the installation is successful.

Step 5: Start ComfyUI

1. Access your pod from the dashboard.
2. Launch ComfyUI from the interface.
3. Ensure that everything is running smoothly before proceeding.

Step 6: Download Models without Complications

1. Note that downloading models directly to the Network Volume may present challenges.
2. To resolve this, utilize a custom node for URL downloads.
3. Implement Hugginface (HF) and Civit AI model downloader nodes to simplify the process.

Step 7: Manage ComfyUI

1. Use the ComfyUI Manager to oversee your models, workflows, and images.
2. Familiarize yourself with the interface for efficient management of your projects.

Step 8: Closing the Session

1. When finished, properly close your session to avoid unnecessary charges.
2. Terminate the pod from the dashboard to save resources.

Step 9: Resume Work Quickly

1. The next time you want to work, log back into RunPod.
2. Start your pod, and all your models and workflows will be ready without the need for reinstallation.

Conclusion

You have successfully set up ComfyUI on RunPod with a persistent Network Volume. This setup allows for an efficient workflow, saving you time on repetitive installations. Next, consider exploring different models and workflows available through ComfyUI and keep your projects organized for optimal productivity.