Hermes 101
Choose your path. Time: 3 min. Pick the route that matches where you are today. You can switch later.
What this is
Hermes 101 teaches you to run your own personal AI agent — not just chat with one. There are two ways in, and they share the same ideas: model, API key, tools, safety, and useful output.
Why it matters
Total beginners get overwhelmed if they start with servers and command lines. Starting on your own laptop with a temporary key gets you a real first win in one session. The server route is a real upgrade — for when you want more control, not a hurdle before your first success.
What to do
Pick one path:
Hermes 101: Easy Access — for total beginners. Laptop or desktop first. A temporary office API key. Guided, safe tools. Fast first wins. Start here if this is your first agent.
Hermes 101: Developer Upgrade — the VPS route. Your own cloud server, SSH, safer separation, always-on gateway, and Telegram. Take this when you want to own the infrastructure.
Not sure? Start with Easy Access. Everything you learn there carries into the VPS route.
Common mistakes
- Jumping straight to the VPS route on your very first try.
- Thinking Easy Access is "not real" — it teaches the same core ideas.
- Treating the temporary class API key like a normal link.
Next step
Begin with Start Easy Access, or read the Developer Upgrade overview.