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Overview

What is n8n workflow automation? n8n is a comprehensive, free and open-source workflow automation platform that allows you to connect APIs, build custom integrations, and automate complex business processes. You can self-host it for complete control, build unlimited workflows, create custom nodes, and scale from side projects to enterprise systems.
The comprehensive guide to mastering n8n - from your first workflow to building custom nodes and deploying at scale.

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Why Choose n8n

Is n8n better than Zapier or Make? n8n offers complete control through self-hosting, unlimited workflows with no execution limits, custom node creation capabilities, full JavaScript/TypeScript support, and production-ready scaling. Unlike Zapier or Make’s pricing tiers, n8n is open-source and free to self-host with no workflow restrictions.
n8n gives you:
  • Complete control - Self-host your automations
  • Unlimited workflows - No execution limits or pricing tiers
  • Custom nodes - Build exactly what you need
  • Real programming - Use JavaScript/TypeScript when visual isn’t enough
  • Production ready - Scale from side project to enterprise

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Learning Outcomes

What n8n skills will I learn? You’ll master self-hosting n8n on platforms like Railway or Docker, designing complex workflow automations, creating custom nodes in TypeScript, and implementing production operations including backups, monitoring, and scaling strategies.

Self-Hosting & Setup

Deploy n8n on Railway, Docker, or Kubernetes

Workflow Development

Design complex automations that actually work

Custom Node Creation

Build nodes tailored to your specific needs

Production Operations

Backups, monitoring, and scaling strategies

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Learning Paths

Should I learn n8n no-code or development path? Choose the no-code path if you’re new to n8n or prefer visual workflow building - you’ll be creating automations in hours. Choose the developer path if you want to build custom nodes, integrate proprietary APIs, or need advanced workflow patterns - requires JavaScript/TypeScript knowledge.

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Path 1: Getting Started with n8n

Perfect for beginners and no-code users:
  • Quick deployment with Railway
  • Understanding nodes and workflows
  • Connecting services and APIs
  • Building your first automations
  • Using AI to generate workflows

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Path 2: n8n Developer Course

For developers who want to build on n8n:
  • Setting up development environments
  • Creating custom nodes in TypeScript
  • Advanced workflow patterns
  • Production deployment strategies
  • Backup and disaster recovery

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What Makes This Different

How is this n8n training different from official docs? Real production experience from client projects with complete code and workflow transparency. Battle-tested patterns that work.

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Real Production Experience

Every lesson comes from actual client projects and production deployments.

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Complete Transparency

See the actual code, workflows, problems and solutions.

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Built for Builders

Content designed to help you ship real solutions, whether for your startup or clients.

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Cost and Access

Is n8n training free? Yes, all training content is completely free with no signups, email capture, or upsells. n8n itself is also free to self-host, though you’ll need hosting (starting at $5-20/month for production deployments).
All content is free. No signups. No email capture. No upsells. We believe in sharing knowledge openly. If you find value and want professional help, we’re here. But the education is yours to use freely.

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Getting Started

How do I start learning n8n automation? New users should begin with the quick deployment guide to get n8n running in 10 minutes. Developers can jump straight into the development course if they already have n8n experience and want to build custom solutions.

New to n8n?

Start with quick deployment

Ready to Code?

Jump into development

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Community Support

Where can I get help with n8n workflows? Join our open community where builders share workflows, help debug automations, and contribute improvements. No gatekeeping or insider secrets - just people building cool stuff with n8n and helping each other succeed.
Join our community of builders:
  • Share your workflows and discoveries
  • Get help when you’re stuck
  • Learn from others’ implementations
  • Contribute improvements back
People building cool stuff with n8n and helping each other.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The basic no-code path can be completed in 2-3 weeks (10-15 hours). The developer course takes 4-6 weeks depending on your programming background. You can start building useful workflows within the first day.
No programming experience is needed for the no-code path - you can build powerful automations using visual workflows. The developer path requires basic JavaScript/TypeScript knowledge for creating custom nodes.
We keep the content updated with the latest stable version of n8n and note any version-specific features. All core concepts work across n8n versions from 0.200+ onwards.
Yes! n8n is open-source under a fair-code license that allows commercial use, even in self-hosted deployments. Many consultants and agencies build n8n solutions for clients.
Zapier starts at 20/monthfor750tasks.n8nself−hostedcosts20/month for 750 tasks. n8n self-hosted costs 5-20/month for hosting with unlimited executions. At scale, n8n can be 90% cheaper than Zapier while offering more control.
You can start with free tiers on platforms like Railway (500 hours/month free). Production deployments typically cost 5−20/monthdependingonusage.Enterprisedeploymentsrangefrom5-20/month depending on usage. Enterprise deployments range from 50-200/month.
Absolutely! Many consultants and agencies build n8n solutions for clients. The fair-code license supports this. You can charge for development, deployment, and maintenance of n8n workflows.
Yes, n8n has enterprise features including SSO, audit logs, and advanced permissions. Many large companies use n8n in production. The self-hosted nature makes it ideal for enterprises with security requirements.
Most Zapier workflows can be recreated in n8n with more features and flexibility. We provide migration guides for common patterns. The main effort is in initial setup - after that, n8n is often easier to use.
Our community is active and helpful. Post your question with details about what you’ve tried, and someone will help you out. For business-critical workflows, professional support is available.
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