Module 1 Lesson 3: Key Features of n8n

n8n is more than just "Nodes and Lines." It is a full development environment for automation. Here are the 5 features that make it unique.

1. 400+ Native Integrations

n8n has built-in support for the world's most popular apps:

Productivity: Google Sheets, Notion, Airtable.
Communication: Slack, Telegram, Discord, WhatsApp.
DevOps: Docker, GitHub, GitLab, SSH.
CRM: HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive.

2. Advanced Logical Branching

Most automation tools are "Linear" (If this -> Then that). n8n allows for Branching:

"If the customer is from the US, send to Slack channel #us."
"If they are from the UK, send to channel #uk."
"If we don't know their country, skip for now."

3. Data Transformation (JSON)

n8n treats all data as JSON.

You can easily map fields from one app to another using a "Drag and Drop" expression builder.
You can use JavaScript to modify data (e.g., change name: "sudeep" to name: "SUDEEP").

4. Binary Data Handling

Unlike many automation tools, n8n is great at handling Files:

Resizing an image from an email.
Converting a PDF to text.
Writing a CSV file and uploading it to an S3 bucket.

5. Credential Management

n8n keeps your API keys safe in a separate "Credentials" vault.

You only enter your Slack API key ONCE.
You can then use it in 100 different workflows without ever seeing the key again.

Exercise: The Feature Hunt

Go to n8n.io/integrations. List 3 apps you use every day that have a native node.
What is "Binary data" in the context of an automation?
If an app you love doesn't have a native node, how can you still talk to it? (Hint: See HTTP Request node).
Research: What is the "Merge" node and why is it essential for complex workflows?

Summary

n8n provides the "Building Blocks" but gives you the "Architect's" tools to connect them. By mastering these key features, you will stop building "Simple Scripts" and start building "Automated Systems."

Next Lesson: Your first look: Understanding the UI and Node anatomy.