n8n is an extensible workflow automation platform supporting low-code orchestration across APIs, services, and AI systems. It offers a node-based visual builder and supports custom scripting, making it suitable for engineering-grade automation.
n8n supports both cloud-based and self-hosted deployments. n8n has two licenses: a "Sustainable Use License" which allows the use for internal use cases, and an enterprise license offering enterprise features.
Key Features
Visual Workflow Design
n8n's visual flow builder provides intuitive workflow creation through node-based architecture, with conditional logic and error handling. Data transformation nodes and trigger types (webhook, polling, schedule) make it suitable for real-time and batch use cases.
The visual approach also enables domain experts to create or co-create AI workflows, which closes the gap between AI engineers and domain experts.
AI Integration
The platform offers direct LLM API connections and custom AI node support, including flexible model integration options.
n8n provides a built-in AI Agent nodes that integrates, allowing for the creation of agents capable of tool usage, memory management, and decision-making processes
Agents can be chained, monitored, and triggered programmatically, making n8n a viable control layer for AI-driven systems and workflows.
pre-built integrations
With over 400 pre-built integrations, including popular saas tools and support for vector databases like Pinecone and Qdrant, n8n facilitates the rapid development of AI applications and workflows
Extensibility and Custom Nodes
Custom JavaScript functions and community-contributed nodes expand integration capabilities. Engineers can implement proprietary API calls or services not covered by out-of-the-box connectors.
Enterprise Features
For the enterprise version the platform comes with:
- SSO connection and role-based access control
- Additional observability features (logging, data retention)
- High availability options and scalability features
- Professional versioning and deployment features
These features support deployment in regulated or large-scale environments.
Use Cases
- Workflow automation - including workflows which require AI capabilities
- Building data processing pipelines
- Orchestrating multi-step AI workflows (e.g., RAG pipelines, agentic tools)
- Cross-platform API integration for enterprise SaaS environments
- ...
The n8n website contains a repository of community-contributed use-cases.
Engineering Recommendations
- Focus on designing modular, reusable workflows with comprehensive error handling. E.g. structure workflows into reusable sub-flows with clear input/output contracts.
- Regular validation of data at key points ensures reliability
- Use the Execution Logs and error nodes to manage failures gracefully.
- Monitor agent behavior and token usage when integrating LLMs to avoid runaway costs.
- Store sensitive credentials using the supported credential manager and restrict access via RBAC.
Deployment
- Self-hosted: Supports containerized deployment via Docker or Kubernetes. Suitable for teams with infrastructure control needs or data compliance requirements.
- Cloud: Managed by n8n.io with automated updates, backups, and SLA-based support.