n8n - Workflow Automation
n8n is an automation tool that allows you to connect different applications and create automated workflows without coding.
What is it for?
- Automate repetitive tasks - Connect Gmail, Slack, Google Sheets, etc.
- Integrate applications - Sync data between different services
- Create workflows - Design visual flows with drag and drop
Open Source Alternative to
- Zapier
- Make (Integromat)
- Workato
- Tray.io
- Power Automate
- IFTTT
Why choose n8n over SaaS alternatives?
| Feature | n8n | SaaS Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Fixed monthly price | Per user/usage |
| Data | On your server | On external servers |
| Limits | No limits | Plan-based limits |
| Customization | 100% customizable | Limited |
| Code | Open source | Proprietary |
Use case examples
- Receive an email → Save attachments to Google Drive → Notify on Slack
- New lead in CRM → Send welcome email → Add to newsletter list
- WordPress post → Automatically share on Twitter and LinkedIn
Minimum requirements
| Resource | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 1 vCPU | 2 vCPU |
| RAM | 1 GB | 2 GB |
| Storage | 25 GB | 50 GB |
Initial setup
When deploying n8n, you will configure:
- Username: Your username to access
- Password: Your access password
Getting started
1. Access the editor
After deployment, click "Open App" and enter your credentials.
2. Create your first workflow
- Click + Add workflow
- Drag a Trigger node (e.g., Webhook, Schedule)
- Connect action nodes
- Activate the workflow
3. Connect your apps
For each service you want to use:
- Go to Settings > Credentials
- Click Add Credential
- Select the service and authorize
Video tutorials
Additional resources
Troubleshooting
I can't connect a credential
Make sure your n8n URL (yourapp.deployalo.com) is correctly configured as the "Webhook URL" in the external service.
The workflow doesn't run
- Verify the workflow is active (green toggle)
- Check the logs in Executions
- Verify connected credentials