Connect Hermes Agent to XiuRouter

Use the Hermes model wizard to add a custom endpoint and verify context, requests, and read-only tools.

For both first setup and an existing installation, run hermes model outside the Hermes conversation. The in-session /model command switches configured providers; it cannot add a new connection.

Choose a setup method

First setup: run the model wizard and add a XiuRouter Custom endpoint.
Existing setup: retain your original provider, add XiuRouter, and switch in a new session.
Chat-assisted setup: unavailable; exit the conversation and run the wizard.

Before you start

hermes --version returns a version.
You have a dedicated XiuRouter key for Hermes.
You are ready to select a model from the endpoint’s model list.

Hermes agent tools require at least 64,000 tokens of context. Use the context supported by the actual model and source rather than guessing from its name.

Add a Custom endpoint

Outside the Hermes session, run:

hermes model

Complete the wizard:

Provider: Custom endpoint (self-hosted / VLLM / etc.)
Base URL: https://router-api.xiu.ai/v1
API Key: Your XiuRouter API key
Model: Select from the endpoint /v1/models list
API mode: Chat Completions
Context length: Try automatic detection; if it fails, enter the supported value

Hermes uses the endpoint’s /models response for model and context resolution. Do not preselect the model on the XiuRouter site or put the key in project files, shared scripts, or screenshots.

Verify

Start a new Hermes session and confirm the provider and model.
Send a short text request.
Ask Hermes to read the current directory and report its path without changing files.
Verify the key, model, /v1/chat/completions, and successful status in XiuRouter’s request inspection view.

A text reply proves basic Chat Completions only. Terminal, file, and other tools need valid tool calls from the model. Complete a read-only tool task before granting broader permissions.

Troubleshoot

Symptom	Next step
Model discovery returns `401`	Run `hermes model` again and check the saved key
Hermes refuses to start the agent	Verify that the configured context is at least 64,000 tokens
Requests use `/v1/responses`	Change the Custom endpoint API mode back to Chat Completions
Text works but tools do not run	Try a model with verified tools and check its actual context
Long tasks stop	Use `router-api.xiu.ai`, not the console domain

Roll back

Run hermes model, restore the original provider and model, then verify a new session before revoking the XiuRouter key.

Sources and review date

Reviewed on 2026-08-31. This translation preserves that date. Basic setup requires a complete reply and matching usage record; verify context and tools with the actual model.