What is n8n?
n8n (pronounced “n-eight-n”) is an open-source workflow automation tool that connects APIs and services using a visual interface. Founded by Jan Oberhauser in 2019, it enables users to create custom integrations—called “workflows”—between apps, databases, and systems without writing code. Unlike closed SaaS alternatives, n8n operates on a fair-code model: source-available with contributions owned by the community.
Core Architecture & Operation
-
Visual Workflow Builder
Drag-and-drop nodes represent apps (Slack, Google Sheets) or functions (IF/ELSE, HTTP requests). Nodes connect to form sequences, transforming and routing data. -
Self-Hosted First
Primarily designed for on-premise/private cloud deployment (Docker, Kubernetes), giving full data control. Cloud version available via n8n.io. -
Execution Model
Workflows trigger via:- Webhooks
- Cron schedules
- Manual runs
- API calls
Data flows between nodes as JSON payloads.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 300+ Native Integrations | Pre-built nodes for services like Salesforce, GitHub, Telegram, PostgreSQL |
| Custom Nodes | Build reusable nodes with JavaScript/Python |
| Error Handling | Automatic retries, fallback paths, and detailed error logs |
| Data Transformation | Built-in tools for JSON/XML manipulation, date formatting, and merging datasets |
| Version Control | Workflow history tracking and rollback capabilities |
| Community Templates | 1,000+ pre-made workflows for common use cases |
Top Use Cases
- CRM Sync: Connect HubSpot → Slack → Google Sheets for lead alerts
- IT Automation: Auto-create Jira tickets from error logs + SMS alerts
- Marketing Workflows: Sync Mailchimp subscribers to Airtable + generate PDF reports
- Data Pipelines: Scrape websites → process data → populate databases
- Custom APIs: Build internal tools connecting legacy systems
Why Developers & Teams Choose n8n
- No Vendor Lock-in: Self-host for complete infrastructure control
- Extensibility: Add custom code (JavaScript/Python) in any node
- Transparent Pricing: Free tier + usage-based scaling (no per-user fees)
- Active Community: 40k+ GitHub stars, 10k+ Discord members
- Enterprise-Ready: SSO, audit logs, and team permissions
Getting Started
- Deploy:
docker run -it n8nio/n8nor use cloud version - Explore Templates: Browse workflow library at n8n.io/workflows
- Build: Drag nodes → configure credentials → activate workflow
- Extend: Create custom nodes with npm/n8n-node-dev
> “n8n turns complex integrations into visual puzzles anyone can solve.”
> – TechCrunch
n8n redefines workflow automation by prioritizing flexibility, ownership, and extensibility. With its fair-code foundation and visual approach, it empowers both technical and non-technical users to automate processes while maintaining data sovereignty. From solo developers to Fortune 500 teams, n8n scales from simple task automation to mission-critical enterprise workflows.