Glossary · Automation & Integrations
n8n
Overview
What n8n is
n8n is a workflow automation tool that connects apps, APIs, and databases through a visual, node-based editor. Each node performs a step, such as a trigger, an app action, a data transformation, or a piece of logic, and you wire nodes together to form a workflow. It is source-available under a fair-code license, so you can self-host it for free and keep all data on your own infrastructure, or use the managed n8n Cloud.
How n8n workflows run
Workflows begin with a trigger node, such as a schedule, a webhook, or an app event, then pass data through action and logic nodes. Expressions let you reference and reshape data between steps, and branching, merging, and looping handle complex paths. n8n ships with hundreds of integrations plus generic HTTP and code nodes, and dedicated AI and agent nodes let you build LLM-powered steps directly inside a workflow.
Where an agency uses n8n
n8n is our go-to when a client needs automation with full control over data and hosting. Because it self-hosts, sensitive records never leave their environment, which matters for regulated or privacy-conscious businesses. We use it across workflow automation, AI agents, AI chatbots, and AI voice agent projects, and its code nodes let our in-house team extend a workflow well beyond what off-the-shelf tools allow. It is a strong fit when Zapier or Make become limiting or costly at scale.
Where we use it
Related Zen in Tech services
How our team puts n8n to work in real projects.
FAQ
n8n — common questions
Is n8n free?
The self-hosted community edition of n8n is free and open to run on your own server. n8n also offers paid Cloud plans and an enterprise tier with extra features like SSO and advanced permissions, so you pay only if you want managed hosting or enterprise capabilities.
n8n vs Zapier or Make?
n8n's main advantage is self-hosting and developer flexibility: you keep data in-house, avoid per-task pricing, and can drop into code whenever needed. Zapier and Make are fully managed and often simpler for non-technical users, but can get expensive at high volume.
Do I need to code to use n8n?
No. You can build most workflows visually by connecting nodes. Coding is optional, offered through code and function nodes for custom logic, which makes n8n approachable for beginners yet powerful for developers.
Need n8n done right?
Book a free consultation and we’ll map the fastest, most cost-effective path for your project.
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