What is n8n?
n8n is a workflow automation platform that connects applications and APIs through visual nodes and that you can also run on your own servers. Its source code is available under a 'fair-code' licence, and a hosted cloud version exists too. For companies that want to keep data on their own infrastructure, it is a strong alternative to Zapier and Make.
Definition
n8n is a workflow automation platform that connects applications and APIs through visual nodes and that you can also run on your own servers.
How does n8n work?
An n8n workflow is made of nodes. The first node is a trigger: a new email, a web form, a schedule or a webhook call. The following nodes read data, transform it and write it to other systems. There are ready-made nodes for Google Sheets, Slack, Microsoft 365, databases and HTTP requests. For a system without a dedicated node, you use an HTTP request or a JavaScript code node. AI nodes let a workflow call an LLM or run an AI agent.
When should you use n8n?
When data has to move between systems that expose APIs: writing marketplace orders into an ERP, adding form submissions to a CRM, preparing a weekly report automatically. Screen-only systems without an API need RPA instead. n8n is a low-code tool, so simple workflows are readable by non-technical teams.
Data location and compliance
Because n8n can run on your own servers, in an EU region or in a data centre in Türkiye, it simplifies questions about international data transfers under GDPR and KVKK, Türkiye’s data protection law. Turkish ERPs such as Logo, Mikro or Netsis usually have no dedicated node, so they are connected through their database, web services or file exchange. For the broader picture, see workflow automation.
Related terms
- Workflow automationWorkflow automation is an approach in which software carries out the repetitive steps of a business process, such as data transfer, approvals, notifications and reporting, according to defined rules.
- Low-codeLow-code is a software development approach in which applications and workflows are built mainly with visual interfaces, drag-and-drop components and ready-made connectors, extended with small amounts of code where needed.
- RPA (Robotic Process Automation)RPA (robotic process automation) is an automation method in which a software robot clicks through screens and enters data like a person to carry out rule-based, repetitive tasks.
- AI agentAn AI agent is software that uses a language model to decide which steps to take towards a goal and then carries out those steps with tools such as APIs, databases and email.
Frequently asked questions
Is n8n free?
The self-hosted community edition is free for your own internal use as long as you follow its licence terms. The cloud version and enterprise features are paid. For commercial use, check the current licence terms.
What is the difference between n8n and Make?
Both build visual workflows. n8n can be self-hosted and is more open to code steps; Make runs only in its own cloud and is quicker to start with. When data location matters, n8n usually comes out ahead.
Let’s talk about your transformation
Tell us which work repeats every week. We will tell you honestly whether it is worth automating.
How we start
- A free first callWe pin down the problem and the goal together.
- A 2-week discovery sprintWe look at the data, the process and the tools, and decide where to start.
- A written proposalScope, architecture and timeline, in writing.