n8n enables users to build and install custom nodes, with the introduction of a community node repository simplifying the process for self-hosted users, though plans are underway to extend this to n8n cloud. By visiting the community nodes section in Settings and inputting the npm Package Name, users can install nodes to access a wider range of integrations beyond the official n8n nodes. Building a community node involves creating an npm package and publishing it on the npm registry, with tools like n8n-nodes-starter available for a quick start. These nodes go live immediately upon submission to npm without undergoing review by n8n’s team, but they are maintained independently, so users should exercise caution and address any issues with the node creators directly.