Apache NiFi is a powerful open source platform,designed to automate data flows between different systems. Originally developed in 2006 by the US National Security Agency (NSA) under the name “Niagara Files” for internal use. In 2014, the project was open-sourced and transferred to the Apache Software Foundation, becoming part of their technology transfer initiatives (Wikipedia, “Apache NiFi,” 1 January 2025).
Apache NiFi is designed to collect, process and transmit data in real time. Unlike Airflow, which works with batch tasks and requires well-defined schedules, NiFi operates in a stream processing mode, allowing for uninterrupted data transfer between different services.
Apache NiFi is ideal for integration with IoT devices, construction sensors, monitoring systems, and e.g. stream validation of CAD formats on a server where immediate response to changes in data may be required.
With built-in filtering, transformation and routing tools, NiFi allows you to standardize data (Transform) before transferring it (Load) to storage or analytics systems. One of its main advantages is its built-in security support and access control, making it a reliable solution for handling sensitive information.
Apache NiFi efficiently handles real-time data streaming, filtering, and routing tasks. It is ideal for technically intensive scenarios where stable information transfer between systems and high throughput are important.
However, in cases where the main goal is to integrate various services, automate routine operations and quickly set up workflows without deep programming knowledge, solutions with a low entry threshold and maximum flexibility are in demand. One such tool is n8n – a Low-Code /No-Code class platform focused on business automation and visual process orchestration.
