n8n + Xano: A Powerful No-Code Backend for Scalable Applications

In the final article of our series on n8n integrations with backend services, we’re taking a closer look at Xano — a no-code/low-code platform for building scalable APIs and databases without writing server-side code.

If you need a flexible, fast-to-deploy backend with support for scalability and automation, the Xano + n8n combination is an excellent choice.

What Is Xano?

Xano is a cloud platform for visually building backends and APIs. Under the hood, it runs on PostgreSQL, while on the surface it offers a powerful API Builder for creating logic, DB operations, and integrations — all without writing code.

Key components:

• 🔹 Database — a no-code interface built on PostgreSQL.
• 🔹 API Builder — a visual tool for building REST APIs and business logic.
• 🔹 Authentication — built-in system for users, tokens, and roles.
• 🔹 Scalability — automatic scaling with no infrastructure worries.

Advantages of Xano

✅ No-code API Builder — build logic with conditions, loops, queries, and external API calls.

✅ Scalability — the platform is production-ready for high loads out of the box.

✅ PostgreSQL — a mature relational database powers the platform.

✅ Flexible integration — Xano generates standard REST APIs ready to use with n8n.

✅ Built-in security — authentication, authorization, and data protection are included.

Limitations of Xano

⚠️ SaaS platform — no self-hosting option, tightly coupled to Xano’s infrastructure.
⚠️ Pricing — advanced features are paid, and costs can add up.
⚠️ Learning curve — despite being no-code, complex logic requires understanding the system.
⚠️ No native node in n8n — integration is done manually via HTTP Request node.

Integrating Xano with n8n

Connection steps:

1. Create a project in Xano, configure tables and APIs.
2. Copy the Base URL of your API (e.g. https://x8x8-xxxx-xxxx.xano.io/api:v1).
3. Set up authentication: use a token, API-Key, or JWT.
4. Add HTTP Request node in n8n:

Example:

• Method: POST, GET, PUT, DELETE
• URL: https://...xano.io/api:v1/endpoint
• Headers:
  • Authorization: Bearer <token>
  • Content-Type: application/json
• Body: JSON payload with data

Automation Examples

1. 📡 Webhook from Xano to n8n

• In Xano, create an endpoint that sends a Webhook to n8n on data update.
• The n8n workflow triggers notifications, calculations, or records to other systems.

2. 📲 Backend for a Mobile App

• Xano handles API requests from the mobile app.
• n8n runs asynchronous tasks: analysis, integrations, reports.
• Data is returned or updated back in Xano.

3. 📊 Bulk Data Updates

• Retrieve data from external API → Split In Batches → HTTP Request to Xano.
• Used for imports, syncing, or mass updates.

Unique Features of Xano

Conclusion

Xano is one of the most powerful no-code backend tools — especially when your focus is API and business logic. While there’s no dedicated node in n8n, REST-based integration allows you to build any automation: from syncing data to launching complex processes and notifications.

If you’re looking for a platform that can adapt quickly to your business needs without diving into backend code — Xano and n8n together offer a versatile and scalable automation toolchain.