Start with meaning, then move to detail.
This lesson explains WhatsApp as part of getting started with Hermes correctly. You will learn what it does, when it matters, and the smallest safe test that proves it works.
If you are new, do not memorize names. Focus on three questions: what problem does this solve, what access does it need, and how can you verify the result?
For practice, inspect the first example, identify its effects, run it on test data, and compare the result with the source claim.
For advanced readers, inspect Two Modes, Prerequisites, Step 1: Run the Setup Wizard, then verify failure modes and version compatibility.
No prior experience is required; follow the steps on a safe test setup first.
A clear outcome before you read.
- Understand WhatsApp without assumed prior knowledge.
- Separate the source description from what still needs testing in your environment.
- Read the first command and identify its inputs and outputs before copying it.
Short definitions before the details.
- Session & memory
- A session holds conversation context, while memory keeps selected facts that should persist.
Set up Hermes Agent as a WhatsApp bot via the built-in Baileys bridge
What does the source say, and in what order?
- 01Two Modes
Start here to understand the core idea or structure.
- 02Prerequisites
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 03Step 1: Run the Setup Wizard
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 04Step 2: Getting a Second Phone Number (Bot Mode)
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 05Step 3: Configure Hermes
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 06Session Persistence
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 07Re-pairing
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 08Voice Messages
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 09Message Formatting & Delivery
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 10Chunking
Finish here to verify the result and special cases.
Copy only after you understand the effect.
hermes whatsapp# Required
WHATSAPP_ENABLED=true
WHATSAPP_MODE=bot # "bot" or "self-chat"
# Access control — pick ONE of these options:
WHATSAPP_ALLOWED_USERS=15551234567 # Comma-separated phone numbers (with country code, no +)
# WHATSAPP_ALLOWED_USERS=* # OR use * to allow everyone
# WHATSAPP_ALLOW_ALL_USERS=true # OR set this flag instead (same effect as *)unauthorized_dm_behavior: pair
whatsapp:
unauthorized_dm_behavior: ignoreRead the first command and identify its inputs and outputs before copying it.
Match every command to your installed Hermes version, review the files and accounts it can reach, and use non-sensitive data for the first test. If this explanation differs from the source, the official source wins.