> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.perisclaw.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.perisclaw.com/getting-started/setup-your-assistant.md).

# Set up your assistant

Perisclaw connects to your WhatsApp as a **linked device** — the same mechanism WhatsApp uses for WhatsApp Web and the desktop app. Setup takes about a minute and happens entirely in your browser. Your assistant then lives in your WhatsApp **self-chat** (the chat with your own number).

{% hint style="info" %}
You'll need the phone where WhatsApp is installed nearby to approve the link.
{% endhint %}

## Set up in four steps

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Sign in

Open the Perisclaw dashboard and sign in with Google. Your assistant is hosted on a secure, private server that only you can reach over WhatsApp.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Add your WhatsApp number

Enter the WhatsApp number you want your assistant to live on. Perisclaw will live in **that number's self-chat** — it doesn't add a new contact or bot.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Link your device

Connect Perisclaw to WhatsApp using either a QR code or a pairing code (see the two methods below). This is the same **Linked Devices** flow you'd use for WhatsApp Web.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Meet your assistant

Perisclaw spins up your private server (about 30 seconds) and wakes up. Open WhatsApp, go to your self-chat, and say hi — it'll walk you through a quick setup (your name, timezone, what you want help with, and optionally connecting Google).
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Two ways to link

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Scan a QR code" %}
Best when you have the dashboard open on a computer and your phone in hand.

1. On your phone, open **WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices → Link a Device**.
2. Point your phone's camera at the QR code shown in the dashboard.
3. WhatsApp confirms the link, and your assistant connects.
   {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Use a pairing code" %}
Best when you're setting up on the same phone, or a camera scan is awkward.

1. The dashboard shows an 8-character pairing code.
2. On your phone, open **WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices → Link a Device → Link with phone number instead**.
3. Enter the code from the dashboard. WhatsApp confirms the link.
   {% endtab %}
   {% endtabs %}

## After setup

The first time you message your assistant, it asks a few quick questions to get going:

* **Your name** — what it should call you.
* **Your timezone** — so reminders and your daily digest arrive at the right time.
* **What you want help with** — your priorities (you can send a voice note).
* **Google (optional)** — connect once to unlock [Calendar](/skills-and-integrations/calendar.md), [Drive & Sheets](/skills-and-integrations/drive-and-sheets.md), and contacts. You can always do this later by saying "connect Google."

That's it — you're ready to start. Next: [Using Perisclaw](/getting-started/using-perisclaw.md).


---

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