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hermes import Command — Complete Reference & Examples

Complete reference for hermes import: restore a Hermes backup zip file, recovering all configuration, sessions, skills, and credentials.

July 27, 2026

Overview

hermes import extracts a previously created Hermes backup into your Hermes home directory, restoring configuration, skills, sessions, and data.

hermes import [-h] [--force] zipfile

Arguments

Argument Description
zipfile Path to the backup zip file created by hermes backup.
--force, -f Overwrite existing files without prompting for confirmation.

Common Scenarios

Restore from a backup

hermes import ~/backups/hermes-2026-07-27.zip

Overwrite existing files

hermes import --force ~/backups/hermes-2026-07-27.zip

Migrate to a new machine

# On the old machine
hermes backup --output ~/hermes-migration.zip

# Transfer to the new machine
scp ~/hermes-migration.zip new-machine:~/

# On the new machine
hermes import ~/hermes-migration.zip

Tips

  • Use --force when you want a fully unattended restore.
  • Make sure the zip file comes from a trusted source — it may contain credentials and session data.
  • After importing, check that your configuration looks correct.
  • hermes import restores into your Hermes home directory; it does not create a new profile.

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