# WhatsApp: start here (/en/docs/wa)

wa is a command-line tool that lets your AI agent read saved WhatsApp chats, search messages and help you reply. It connects your personal account as a linked device; you can also run its commands yourself. Business-number bots use a separate [Cloud API connection](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/bot/content.md).

## Choose how to start [#choose-how-to-start]

[Install and link your account](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/installation/content.md) with your agent or by hand. You approve the QR code on your phone; the guide explains what arrives in the local history and how to check the chosen account.

## After connecting [#after-connecting]

* [Read and search chats](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/usage/content.md), then [check an older agreement](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/search/content.md).
* [Keep and verify files](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/attachments/content.md) and understand [history coverage](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/archive/content.md).
* [Choose agent permissions](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/permissions/content.md) or [connect an MCP app](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/mcp/content.md).
* [Review group members and questions](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/groups/content.md) before choosing an administrative action.

Exact commands are in the [reference](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/commands/content.md); [troubleshooting](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/troubleshooting/content.md) helps with connection failures, and the [roadmap](/llms.mdx/docs/wa/roadmap/content.md) lists future work.