01What Hermes Agent Workspace Is and How It Works
Hermes Agent Workspace is a user interface for Hermes Agent that allows you to run multiple AI models and agent profiles in one place. Instead of being stuck with one model and one set of skills, you can switch between the best AI models depending on what you need. This gives you the right tool for every job.
The workspace includes a chat, file manager, terminal, conductor, and a section for agent swarms. You can also add custom API keys and OAuth logins for different providers. It runs on multiple local ports, so you need to sync the backend to get everything working smoothly.
02Key Features of Hermes Agent Workspace
Hermes Agent Workspace has several important features that set it apart from using a single Hermes model:
- Multiple model support: You can add models like Grok, NewsPortal, OpenAI Codecs, Atomic Chat, and Alarmer. Each model can be selected per task.
- Agent swarms: Run multiple agents at the same time in the swarm section. Each agent can have a different profile and model.
- OAuth integration: You can log in using your existing subscriptions, like Twitter for Grok, and plug them directly into the workspace.
- Custom API keys: Add your own API keys for providers that are not pre-listed.
- Workspace UI: A graphical interface that includes chat, file management, a terminal, and conductor for orchestrating tasks.
03How to Set Up Hermes Agent Workspace Step by Step
- Install the workspace: Copy the installation command from the documentation, paste it into your terminal, and run it. It will take a few minutes to complete.
- Add models: Run the command hermes model and then add the models you want. For example, you can add NewsPortal or X (Twitter) and authorize with OAuth.
- Start the Hermes Gateway: Run the command hermes gateway run in your terminal. This creates the backend connection.
- Launch the Workspace UI: Run the command hermes gateway ui. The UI will be available at localhost:3000. If something is already running on that port, you need to change the port.
- Sync models in settings: Once the UI is running, go to settings and model settings. Click add for each model you want to use. You may need to log in via OAuth or add API keys.
- Troubleshoot with Claude: If you run into errors, paste the documentation and the errors into Claude Desktop or Claude Code. Ask it to fix the issue on your local machine.
04How to Use Hermes Agent Workspace: Adding Models and Running Agents
After setup, open the workspace UI at localhost:3000. Go to the settings and model provider section. There, you can switch between different models.
For example, you can select Grok 4.3 if you added the X OAuth. The workspace also supports NewsPortal, OpenAI Codecs, Atomic Chat, and Alarmer.
To run multiple agents simultaneously, go to the operations and swarm section. There you can add different agent profiles. Each profile can use a different model.
This is called an agent swarm — multiple agents working at the same time. You can also switch models on the fly from the chat interface. If a model does not appear, you need to sync it by adding it again in settings or using Claude to fix the backend.
05Results and Comparisons Shown in the Episode
During the setup, Julian Goldie shows that the process can be buggy. The workspace UI displays errors, and the Gateway starts slowly. He demonstrates that even after running the correct commands, the backend may not sync properly.
It often takes multiple attempts and manual fixes.
He compares the Hermes Agent Workspace with the Agent Operating System he created. The Agent OS syncs faster and easier. It also includes specialized workflows for SEO, video, and image generation, plus a Kanban board.
The Hermes workspace only offers basic chat and file tools. Julian notes that the creator Eric updates Hermes rapidly, which sometimes causes integration issues. For example, Grok OAuth was not selectable in the workspace settings because of a missing update.
06Tips, Limits and Mistakes to Avoid in Hermes Workspace
Expect bugs: The workspace can be buggy and slow to load. Errors are common even after a clean install. Be prepared for back and forth fixes.
- Use Claude for fixes: If you are not a coder, paste the documentation and errors into Claude Desktop or Claude Code. Ask it to run the terminal commands for you.
- Enable bypass permissions: When using Claude Desktop to fix issues, enable bypass permissions. This avoids having to manually approve every backend command.
- Check localhost port: If something else is running on localhost:3000, you must change the port. Otherwise the workspace will not start.
- Models may not appear: Adding a model via the terminal does not always sync it into the workspace UI. You may need to add it again in settings and log in via OAuth.
- Not all OAuth providers are updated: Some providers like Grok OAuth might not be available in the workspace settings because Hermes updates quickly and the workspace lags behind.
07Who Should Use Hermes Agent Workspace and Why
Hermes Agent Workspace is for people who want to manage multiple AI models and run agent swarms from one interface. It is best for advanced users who are comfortable with terminal commands and troubleshooting. If you need to switch between models like Grok, OpenAI, and local models depending on the task, this workspace gives you that flexibility.
However, if you prefer a simpler, more stable setup with pre-built workflows, consider the Agent Operating System. It includes daily updates, video tutorials, and support inside the AI Profit Boardroom community. Both tools have their strengths.
Pick the one that matches your technical skill and workflow needs.