What is n8n? The Role of Cloud Solutions in Automation Processes

In today’s fast-paced digital transformation era, it’s more important than ever for businesses to use their time and resources efficiently. This is where n8n comes into play — derived from ‘nodemation’ (node + automation). With its open-source and flexible architecture, n8n is a workflow automation platform that allows you to connect different applications and automate business processes. Let’s take a closer look at what n8n is and how it works!

n8n is an open-source workflow automation tool that enables the automation of repetitive tasks by connecting different applications and services. In n8n terminology, these processes are called workflows, which can be automated through more than 400 ready-to-use integrations or customized with minimal coding. At the heart of n8n’s architecture lies its “node” system. Each node performs a specific task. For example, an HTTP Request node fetches or sends data via an API. These nodes are connected to create a workflow, meaning data obtained from one application can automatically be transferred to another. n8n uses a trigger-based workflow engine, where all actions start with an event trigger. Thus, when an event occurs (for example, a form is submitted), the workflow is activated and executes the predefined steps sequentially. The n8n workflow process can be summarized as follows:

• Trigger: Initiates the process (e.g., Webhook, scheduler, or data input)
• Nodes: Each node performs a task (e.g., send an email, process data)
• Output: Sends or stores the processed data in the target system.

Unlike traditional automation tools, n8n operates under the Sustainable Use License (fair-code model). This allows users to view the software’s source code, host it on their own infrastructure, and customize it as needed within the license scope. Such flexibility enables businesses to have complete control over both their data and automation processes — a major advantage for organizations that require high security and regulatory compliance.

The key n8n features include:

• Wide Integration Support: n8n natively supports over 400 applications and popular services, allowing direct connections with Google Workspace, Slack, HubSpot, Airtable, Notion, and more.
• Custom Nodes and JavaScript Functions: You can add custom functions, create your own nodes, or use the Function Node to incorporate advanced logic through JavaScript.
• Cloud Hosting: If you prefer a managed solution, n8n also offers a hosted cloud version, allowing you to store and manage all data in the cloud environment.
• Real-Time Automation and Webhooks: Webhook integrations enable real-time data flow between systems, ensuring workflows react instantly to events.
• Conditional Workflows: Build dynamic workflows with “if this, then that” logic for flexible automation paths.

As seen above, n8n is a powerful tool for automating business processes and ensuring seamless data flow between applications. Users can automate tasks through prebuilt integrations or create custom connections with minimal coding. At this point, integrating with DevOps services enhances n8n’s automation potential even further. With a DevOps infrastructure, workflows can be integrated into CI/CD processes, triggered in real time via webhooks, and managed through a fully monitored environment. This enables organizations not only to automate tasks but also to build a reliable, scalable, and sustainable automation ecosystem.

In today’s competitive landscape, accelerating and automating business processes is critical for maintaining an advantage. n8n stands out as an open-source workflow platform that automates repetitive tasks, but its true power emerges when integrated with cloud solutions. When deployed in the cloud, n8n requires no infrastructure setup—though usage and licensing costs may vary depending on the selected plan. It offers easier management and eliminates operational overhead. Here’s why cloud automation is essential:

• Cloud-based automation makes business processes flexible, secure, and scalable.
• By choosing n8n cloud, you can create automation workflows without dealing with server infrastructure.
• Once n8n is deployed, it can be accessed from anywhere, allowing teams to manage automations remotely as long as there’s an internet connection.
• The cloud environment ensures continuous operation and high availability for automation workflows.
• Security measures provided by cloud providers help protect sensitive data.
• When used in the cloud, n8n workflows can scale as business volume grows. However, resource management becomes crucial in high-volume scenarios. With repetitive tasks automated, teams can focus on more strategic initiatives.

n8n offers a robust infrastructure for automating repetitive processes and managing data flows, while cloud integration maximizes efficiency, flexibility, and security. If you’re looking for a cloud solution to accelerate your organization’s digital transformation, you’re in the right place! Discover GlassHouse’s managed cloud services today!