Supercharge n8n with Live External Data from 300+ Sources

The workflow automation platform n8n is built for developers. Its node-based editor and open-source flexibility make it easy to connect systems and build custom, AI-powered automations. But when it comes to working with external data, most n8n workflows rely on static snapshots or custom scripts to replicate data into local systems. This adds complexity, introduces sync delays, and limits the real-time potential of your automations.

CData Connect AI fills this gap by enabling direct, live connectivity to more than 300 enterprise CRMs, ERPs, databases, and finance platforms. CData allows n8n workflows and agents to interact with fresh, contextual data without the need for replication. Using the remote Model Context Protocol (MCP) Server, n8n gains secure, real-time access to read, write, and take action across all your critical systems.

Why live data matters in n8n workflows and AI agents

Many integrations pull data into local systems on a schedule. This replication introduces delays, consumes resources, and requires additional data pipelines to stay in sync. In contrast, live external data from CData Connect AI keeps your workflows always current.

• For workflows: Live data ensures accuracy. You can route tickets, update records, or trigger alerts using the most up-to-date information — no waiting for sync jobs.

• For AI agents: Real-time context unlocks action. Agents can ask and answer questions like “What’s the latest ticket status?” or “Close all opportunities over $10K,” then take immediate, informed action across systems.

With live data, n8n automations become more intelligent, efficient, and responsive.

How CData expands n8n beyond native connectors

While n8n supports a growing list of native integrations, most are limited in scope or require custom development to handle advanced use cases. CData Connect AI acts as a universal cloud-to-cloud integration layer, extending n8n with secure, real-time access to over 300 data sources. No VPNs, gateways, or agents required.

Supported systems include (read the full list of sources):

• CRMs: Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho, …

• Databases: SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, Google BigQuery, Snowflake, …

• Finance tools: QuickBooks Online, NetSuite, Xero, …

• Project management: Jira, Asana, Monday.com, …

• And more: Shopify, ServiceNow, SharePoint, and custom APIs

Unlike many solutions that support only basic querying, CData Connect AI enables full read, write, and action capabilities. This means you can update records, insert data, or trigger remote processes directly from your n8n flows.

Query pushdown further boosts performance. By executing queries at the source, Connect AI minimizes data transfer and system load, making workflows faster and more scalable.

Example use cases powered by live data in n8n

Can I connect my CRM to n8n without replicating data?

Yes. With CData Connect AI, you can connect n8n to CRMs like Salesforce in real time using the remote MCP Server. No replication required. Your workflows can directly read, write, and perform actions on CRM data. For example, close cases, update opportunities, or trigger outbound messaging—all using live Salesforce data.

How do I use SQL databases with n8n workflows?

CData supports live connectivity to SQL Server, MySQL, and cloud data warehouses like BigQuery. Using the remote MCP Server, n8n can query live data, apply filters, and even write changes back. You can trigger automations based on real-time changes, sync data between systems, or enrich workflows

Can AI agents in n8n work with external business apps?

Absolutely. CData enables AI agents in n8n to access and act on live data from platforms like Jira, NetSuite, and QuickBooks Online. For example, an agent can pull the latest invoices from QuickBooks or close Jira tickets after a support workflow runs—all without custom code or replication.

How does CData Connect AI enable n8n live data?

CData Connect AI uses a remote MCP Server to securely bridge n8n with over 300 live data sources. It pushes queries and operations down to the source system, enabling real-time interaction without moving data. This lets your n8n workflows and AI agents read, write, and take action across CRMs, databases, ERPs, and more — all from one secure, centralized platform.

How to get started with CData and n8n

Getting live data into n8n is fast and straightforward with CData Connect AI:

1. Create a connection to your source system in Connect AI

2. Generate a Personal Access Token (PAT) for authentication

3. Connect via the MCP Client in n8n using the token (details in the article below)

   • Set the endpoint to https://mcp.cloud.cdata.com/mcp

   • Use Header Auth with Basic authentication

4. Start building workflows and agents using live data from 300+ sources

Setup is secure, scalable, and consistent across all supported systems.

For more details, read our n8n integration guide (Salesforce as an example).

Build data-powered agents and workflows in n8n

n8n lets you build AI agents and AI-powered workflows. With live connectivity through CData Connect AI, your workflows and AI agents can operate on real-time, contextual data from anywhere in your stack — CRMs, databases, ERPs, and beyond.

This means enriched decision-making, faster actions, and less infrastructure to maintain.

Start your free trial today to see how CData can empower n8n with live, secure access to over 300 external systems.