> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.couchdrop.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.couchdrop.io/automations/overview.md).

# Overview

Learn about how to build automations in Couchdrop

Couchdrop Automations let you schedule, trigger, and orchestrate file transfers between systems without relying on scripts, cron jobs, or external middleware.

You can use Automations to manage repetitive or time-sensitive workflows between connected storage platforms, SFTP/FTP servers, cloud environments, and other Couchdrop connections. Common examples include nightly backups, hourly data synchronization, and event-driven file distribution.

Automations are created using Couchdrop's [visual workflow builder](/automations/overview/visual-automation-builder.md). The builder requires no code and supports multi-step workflows using **Primary Actions** and **Sub-actions**.

{% hint style="info" %}
For a walkthrough on creating a complete automation, see [Build your first automation](/get-started/build-your-first-automation.md). 
{% endhint %}

### Enabling Automations

An Automation must be enabled before it can run automatically.

You can enable an Automation in either of the following ways:

* Open the Automation in the builder and click **Automation Enabled**.
* From the Automation list, click the three dots beside a disabled Automation and select **Enable**.

### Disabling Automations

You can disable an Automation without deleting its configuration. A disabled Automation will remain available for editing or enabling again later.

To disable an Automation:

* Open the Automation in the builder and click **Automation Enabled**.
* From the Automation list, click the three dots beside an enabled Automation and select **Disable**.

### Duplicating Automations

You can duplicate an existing Automation when you want to create a similar workflow without changing the original.

From the Automation list, click the three dots beside the Automation and select **Duplicate**.

Couchdrop creates the duplicate immediately using the name:

`[Existing Name] - Copy`

The duplicated Automation can then be edited independently of the original.