Short answer: Beginners should install the desktop app. One download gives you a window to type in and installs the command-line tool. Only pick the terminal/CLI version if you already live in a command line or want to script Hermes. Both give you the same hermes command.
The 30-second decision flowchart
→ No ···· INSTALL THE DESKTOP APP (Lesson 2)
→ Yes ··· Do you want to script or automate Hermes from the command line?
→ No · INSTALL THE DESKTOP APP (it includes the CLI anyway)
→ Yes · INSTALL THE TERMINAL/CLI VERSION (Lesson 3)
WINDOWS USERS: PowerShell, CMD, and Git Bash can launch Hermes; the agent's terminal tool uses its configured bash/MSYS environment. See the trap below.
What each option actually is
| Option | What you get | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop app | A window you type into. Also installs the hermes command. | Beginners, fastest start, no command line |
| Terminal / CLI | The hermes command only. You type in a terminal. | People who live in the terminal, scripters, servers |
Neither option is "more powerful." They're the same engine with a different front door. The desktop app is simply the one with a handle.
The Windows trap (read this if you're on Windows)
hermes from the bash/MSYS environment used by the agent's terminal tool inside a session.Here's the precise, accurate picture:
- You can INSTALL Hermes from PowerShell. The official Windows installer is run in PowerShell:
iex (irm https://hermes-agent.nousresearch.com/install.ps1) - The
hermescommand can run from PowerShell, CMD, or Git Bash. Inside a session, the agent's terminal tool uses a configured bash/MSYS environment.
Why it matters: PowerShell and bash use different command syntax. Launch Hermes from your preferred shell, but use POSIX syntax when giving explicit commands to Hermes's terminal tool. Lesson 3 shows both contexts.
macOS and Linux users don't hit this — their terminal is already bash/zsh.
Can I change my mind later?
Yes. The desktop installer also installs the command-line tool, so you already have both. If you went CLI-only and want the window later, just run hermes desktop. They share the same settings and data, so nothing is lost.
Pick your path
Most readers should take Lesson 2 (desktop). If you're sure you want the command line — especially on Windows, where the shell detail matters — take Lesson 3.