WhatsApp automation in n8n in 5 minutes (community node)

Rodrigo Damazio — Tue, 03 Nov 2026 02:09:51 +0000

Disclosure: I work on ZapZap API, the service this node talks to.

This guide connects a WhatsApp number to n8n and builds two workflows: one that sends a message, and one that replies automatically. It uses the n8n-nodes-zapzap community node, which talks to the ZapZap API.

What you need: self-hosted n8n with a public HTTPS URL (for the trigger), and a ZapZap account with balance.

1. Install the node (1 min)

In n8n: Settings > Community Nodes > Install, type n8n-nodes-zapzap, accept the notice. Search for "ZapZap" in the node panel. You will see ZapZap and ZapZap Trigger.

2. Connect a number (2 min)

In the ZapZap panel create an instance, open its QR code and scan it in WhatsApp under Linked devices. Under Settings copy the API key and API secret.

Prefer to do it inside n8n? The node can create the instance and return the QR code: ZapZap > Instance > Create, then Instance > Get QR Code. Creating an instance is billed to your balance.

In n8n create a ZapZap API credential with the key and secret, and press Test.

3. Send a message (1 min)

Add a ZapZap node: Resource Message, Operation Send Text, pick your instance from the list, Number 5511999999999 (country code, area code, number, digits only) and a Text. Execute the node.

4. Reply automatically (1 min)

Add ZapZap Trigger, pick the credential and the instance, leave Events on Messages and turn on Ignore My Own Messages so it does not answer itself.
Add an IF node: {{ $json.text }} contains hello.
Add ZapZap > Send Text on the true branch. Number: {{ $json.from }}.
Activate the workflow. The trigger registers its production URL on the instance by itself and removes it when you deactivate.

Send "hello" to the connected number from another phone. You get the reply.

Ready-made workflows

Seven importable templates (auto reply, form to WhatsApp, daily reminder, poll after purchase, buttons menu, disconnect alert, create instance) are in the node repository.

Good to know

ZapZap connects regular WhatsApp accounts through a non-official channel (QR code, not the official Business Platform). WhatsApp can restrict numbers that send unwanted or bulk messages. Message people who expect to hear from you, and if you cannot risk the number, use the official platform.
The trigger needs public HTTPS. On localhost, turn on Set Webhook Manually or use a tunnel.
Every delivery is signed; the node verifies the signature and skips retried deliveries with the same delivery ID.
Not verified by n8n yet, so it installs on self-hosted n8n only.

ZapZap API | API docs | Node repository