Your first agent
Install the app, choose where your agent lives, and complete a useful first task.
The quickest start is the desktop app. It includes its own local gateway and database; there is no separate server setup. If you already run a server, the same app can connect to it after opening.
1. Install Jian
Download Jian for your OS and processor. The download page chooses a known platform where possible and asks when architecture is ambiguous.
| Platform | Install |
|---|---|
| macOS | Choose Apple silicon or Intel, open the DMG, and move Jian to Applications. Apple menu → About This Mac shows the chip. |
| Windows | Choose x64 for Intel/AMD or ARM64 for Windows on ARM, then run the installer. Windows builds are currently unsigned; confirm the official release source when Windows warns. |
| Linux | Use an x64/ARM64 AppImage or a compatible Debian package. Make an AppImage executable before launching it. |
Open the app. Its This computer gateway starts automatically. For details on storage and lifetime, read Desktop and local gateway.
2. Choose where the agent will live
Stay on This computer for local agent state and work while the app is running. Use a remote server gateway when you want the same installation on multiple devices, messaging channels, or work that continues after the laptop is closed.
Switching gateways does not move agents between them. Before creating an agent or connecting a provider, check that you have selected the intended gateway.
3. Connect a model
Welcome offers provider setup when one is needed. Use an API credential, a supported subscription sign-in flow, or a compatible endpoint. Settings → Providers lets you manage connections later.
Choose the conversation default under Settings → Model defaults. Image, audio, speech, and compaction are separate activities; configure them as needed. Jian is free, but your provider's usage and plan limits still apply.
Understand providers and model roles.
4. Give the agent a purpose
Set a name, summary, and instructions. Start from a preset such as Developer or Research partner, then edit its text to match your work. Add an avatar if you want one.
Try an explicit first request:
Help me plan the next three steps for Harbor Studio's website refresh. Ask about missing constraints before recommending a schedule. Do not change any files or contact anyone.
Check the answer and the conversation's activity. For actions, use Ask first until you are comfortable with the protection modes.
5. Add one durable preference and one capability
Ask the agent to remember a concrete preference, then inspect Customize → Memories to confirm it was saved. For a repeatable workflow, create or import a skill.
Next, connect the capability your task actually needs: GitHub, an MCP server, or a machine. Verify a small read-only task before expanding the scope.
Return to Welcome
Welcome appears on first use per browser or desktop installation, including when the gateway already has agents. Settings → General → Show onboarding opens it again. Existing providers and agents can be reused instead of duplicated.
Keep the installation current
The desktop provides an update flow; an AppImage and a Debian package have different update mechanisms. For server installations, update web and gateway together and check worker compatibility. Follow Backups and upgrades before changing a server.
If anything fails, use Troubleshooting to identify the layer before reinstalling or replacing credentials.