Tool
n8n
A source-available workflow automation platform: visual nodes, custom code steps, 400+ integrations, self-host or use n8n Cloud. Powerful — and the license is not “do whatever.”
What it is
n8n (n8n GmbH) is a workflow automation tool with a node editor, JS/Python code nodes, credentials management, and a large integration catalog. You can self-host the open codebase or pay for hosted/enterprise. Native AI / LLM nodes exist; it is still primarily an automation platform, not a model runner.
What it replaces
It replaces Zapier / Make for many technical users who want self-hosting, code steps, and denser workflows. It does not replace reading the license before you resell access, and it does not replace a proper job queue for software engineering (CI is still CI).
License
GitHub lists the
n8n-io/n8n
license as “Other.” The project’s
LICENSE.md
puts most of the codebase under the Sustainable Use License (fair-code):
you may use and modify for your own internal business purposes or non-commercial/personal use;
distributing free of charge for non-commercial purposes is allowed; you may not treat
it as a free-for-all SaaS resale toolkit. Files under .ee paths require an
Enterprise license. This is not MIT/Apache. If you build a product on n8n,
read LICENSE.md and n8n’s commercial terms — do not assume OSI-permissive rights.
Where it falls over
- License limits bite teams who want to offer n8n-as-a-service without paying.
- Self-hosting means you own upgrades, queues, and credential security.
- Complex workflows become unreviewed spaghetti faster than Zapier memes admit.
- AI nodes are only as good as the model and prompt you wire in.
Who it's for
Technical operators who want Zapier-class automation with code escapes and self-hosting, and who will honor the Sustainable Use License. Wrong tool if you needed MIT to white-label a commercial automation SaaS for free.
Related in this cluster
- Home Assistant — home-specific automations vs general workflows
- Nextcloud — files/events you often automate against
- AnythingLLM — RAG chat when the workflow needs document Q&A
- Aider — code changes; n8n is for ops glue
Verdict
Use n8n when the workflow engine is excellent and the fair-code terms fit your use. If you need a fully permissive license for resale, look elsewhere or buy the commercial path. Stars are not a license.