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
--forcewhen 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 importrestores into your Hermes home directory; it does not create a new profile.