n8n - Complete Guide

Complete guide for building own AI Agents with automations at n8n platform with free and ready to use templates

Author

Piotr Macai
June 21, 2025

n8n – An Open Automation Platform with Powerful AI Agent Capabilities

n8n (short for “node to node”) is a highly flexible workflow automation platform that allows users to connect various apps, APIs, and services into cohesive, automated processes. Unlike many competing tools, n8n provides a unique combination of visual workflow building and the ability to include custom code (JavaScript and Python), offering unmatched versatility.

Key Features of n8n

  • Advanced Debugging & Monitoring: Track data flows, review workflow execution history, and manage errors effectively with built-in tools.

  • Open Source & Fair-Code: Distributed under the Sustainable Use License, n8n’s source code is always available. It supports self-hosting and complete data control, enabling deep customization.

  • Visual Workflow Builder: An intuitive drag-and-drop interface allows users of all skill levels to build complex automations without writing code.

  • 400+ Integrations: A rich library of pre-built integrations with tools like Slack, Google Sheets, Salesforce, HubSpot, and many more makes it easy to connect almost any system.

  • Custom Code Blocks: Advanced users can insert JavaScript or Python blocks for custom operations and integrations.

  • Flexible Deployment: Host in the n8n Cloud or self-host on your own infrastructure with full control over security and scalability.

A Platform for Next-Level AI Agents

What truly sets n8n apart is its deep integration with AI capabilities—specifically in building and managing intelligent agents. Unlike typical automation tools, n8n allows users to create autonomous AI agents powered by large language models (LLMs) and control their behavior through visual nodes and logic.

What Is an AI Agent in n8n?

An AI Agent in n8n is an autonomous system that:

  • Perceives: Receives inputs such as user queries or data from systems.

  • Understands & Decides: Uses LLMs to interpret input, understand context, and determine next actions.

  • Acts: Executes tasks in the environment using n8n’s built-in nodes and tools.

Unlike fixed "chains" in AI, agents make dynamic decisions based on language understanding, enabling far more flexible and intelligent behavior.

AI Agent Architecture in n8n

n8n simplifies the creation of powerful AI agents through visual nodes and native support for LangChain components:

  • AI Agent Node: Configure agent type (e.g., Tools Agent, Conversational Agent), define its personality and purpose via system messages, and assign tools to carry out tasks.

  • LLM Integration: Connect commercial (e.g., OpenAI GPT, Google Gemini) or open-source models to act as the agent’s reasoning core.

  • Tool Nodes: Enable the agent to take actions, such as:

    • HTTP Request Tool: Call any external API.

    • Workflow Tool: Trigger predefined workflows.

    • Database Nodes: Interact with PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Airtable, etc.

    • Search Tools: Retrieve real-time web data via Google Search API and similar services.

    • Web Scrapers: Extract data from websites.

    • Image Generation: Control image output natively inside workflows.

Memory Management

n8n supports multiple memory types for building contextual and persistent experiences:

  • Simple Memory: For basic interactions.

  • Window Buffer Memory: Retains recent conversation history.

  • Persistent Database Memory: Store long-term, personalized data using Airtable, Supabase, PostgreSQL, and more.

Output Validation & Control

n8n ensures agent outputs are structured and reliable with tools like:

  • Structured Output Parser: Validates output against JSON schemas and retries if needed.

  • Auto-Fixing Parser: Uses LLMs to automatically resolve formatting issues.

  • Human-in-the-Loop: Adds human approval steps before critical agent actions are executed.

Cost Monitoring & Safety

With event-driven triggers and error handling, users can control when agents activate, reducing unnecessary LLM usage and managing costs effectively.

Real-World Use Cases

n8n AI agents are already transforming workflows in diverse industries:

  • Smart Chatbots: Bots that can query data, make bookings, and manage records.

  • Research Agents: Internet-scraping assistants that summarize documents and sites.

  • Sales/Marketing Automation: Personalizing outreach, generating leads, and integrating with CRMs.

  • Security Operations: Enhancing incident responses by enriching alerts and suggesting actions.

  • Customer Service: Resolving issues, escalating cases, and updating systems.

  • Business Process Automation: From employee onboarding to invoice processing—agents streamline operations with contextual awareness.

Getting Started with n8n: Installation and Launch Guide

n8n (pronounced “n-eight-n”) is a powerful tool for app integration and workflow automation that lets you connect systems and manipulate data with minimal coding. There are several ways to get started with n8n, depending on your needs and preferences.

Choose Your Installation Method

n8n can be set up in different ways depending on how you plan to use it:

n8n Cloud (Hosted Solution)

  • No installation required.

  • Ideal for quickly testing or using n8n without managing infrastructure.

  • Just sign up and start building workflows in your browser.

Self-Hosted (On-Premise)

  • Recommended for production use or custom setups.

  • Gives you full control over your environment and data.

Available installation options include:

  • npm (Node Package Manager)

  • Docker

  • Server Setup Guides for popular platforms

  • Embed: Rebrand and integrate n8n into your own product (contact n8n for pricing and support)

Installing with npm (Local Environment)

  1. Install Node.js and npm Check if you have them installed by running node -v and npm -v in your terminal. If not, download them from nodejs.org.

  2. Install n8n globally

    bash 

    npm install -g n8n

  3. Run n8n

    bash 

    n8n

    This will launch n8n in your browser.

Installing with Docker (Containerized Setup)

  1. Install Docker Download and install it from docker.com.

  2. Pull the n8n image

    bash 

    docker pull n8nio/n8n

  3. Run the container

    bash 

    docker run -p 5678:5678 -v ~/.n8n:/home/node/.n8n n8nio/n8n

    Access n8n at http://localhost:5678.

Using n8n Cloud

  1. Sign up at n8n.cloud

  2. Start building workflows right away in the intuitive web interface.

Official Resources and Documentation