> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://hashbot.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Essential Setup

> Get Hashbot protecting your server in 5 minutes with this streamlined setup guide.

This guide covers the minimum steps needed to get Hashbot actively protecting your Discord server. Complete these steps in order for basic protection.

<Tip>
  For the smoothest experience, we recommend using the [Hashbot Dashboard](https://dashboard.hashbot.com) to manage your settings, filters, and reviews — no slash commands needed.
</Tip>

## Prerequisites

Before starting, ensure you have:

* **Manage Server** permission on your Discord server
* [Invited Hashbot](/invite-hashbot) to your server
* Basic understanding of Discord roles and permissions

## Step 1: Configure Hashbot Role

Hashbot needs proper permissions to moderate your server effectively.

1. Go to **Server Settings** → **Roles**
2. Find the **Hashbot** role
3. Move it **above** the roles of users you want it to moderate
4. Verify it has these permissions:
   * Ban Members
   * Kick Members
   * Manage Messages
   * View Channels
   * Send Messages

<Warning>
  If Hashbot's role is below other roles, it cannot moderate users with those roles.
</Warning>

## Step 2: Set Up Log Channel

Create a private channel where Hashbot will report its actions.

1. Create a new private channel (e.g., `#hashbot-logs`)
2. Run: `/settings logging set channel:#hashbot-logs`
3. Verify Hashbot can access the channel

<Info>
  Without a log channel, reports go to the server owner's DMs, which can be overwhelming.
</Info>

## Step 3: Add Manager Role

Designate who can configure Hashbot settings.

1. Choose a trusted admin role (e.g., `@Admins`)
2. Run: `/manager add role:@Admins`
3. Verify with: `/manager list` (shows role count with a **"Manage on Dashboard"** button)

## Step 4: Configure Allowlist

Protect your team from accidental moderation.

1. Add your admin roles: `/allowlist add role:@Admins`
2. Add your moderator roles: `/allowlist add role:@Moderators`
3. Add any trusted bots: `/allowlist add user:@TrustedBot`

<Check>
  Allowlisted users and roles are exempt from **all** Hashbot actions.
</Check>

## Step 5: Add Your First Filter

Start with basic protection against impersonation.

1. Add your project name: `/name-filters add phrase YourProjectName`
2. Add common scam terms: `/name-filters add phrase airdrop`
3. Test a filter: `/name-filters test scammer_airdrop`

## Step 6: Enable Spam Auto Detection

Hashbot can automatically kick members that Discord has flagged as spammers.

1. Verify auto-kick is enabled: `/settings autokick-spammer set-state state:enable`
2. (Optional) Set punishment level: `/settings autokick-spammer punishment level:kick`
3. (Optional) Enable silent mode to suppress mod pings: `/settings autokick-spammer silent state:enable`
4. Run a one-time scan of existing members: `/scan-spammers`

<Info>
  Auto-kick is enabled by default. Run `/scan-spammers` to catch any flagged accounts that joined before Hashbot was installed.
</Info>

## Step 7: Enable Fuzzy Mode (Subscription Required)

For enhanced detection of Unicode and symbol variants.

1. Run: `/settings fuzzy set-state fuzzy-state:enable`

<Warning>
  Fuzzy Mode requires an active subscription. [Activate your subscription](/activate-subscription) if you haven't already.
</Warning>

## Step 8: Run Initial Cleanse

Scan existing server members for matches.

1. Run: `/cleanse` to start a scan
2. Results are displayed with a **"Review on Dashboard"** button — visit [dashboard.hashbot.com](https://dashboard.hashbot.com) to review matches and take action
3. If satisfied, run: `/cleanse options:force` to auto-ban matches

<Info>
  Cleanse only affects existing members. New members are automatically scanned upon joining.
</Info>

## Verify Your Setup

Check that everything is working correctly:

1. **Settings Status**: `/settings status` - Review all configurations
2. **Test Protection**: Create a test account with a filtered name and try to join
3. **Check Logs**: Verify actions appear in your log channel

<Tip>
  The [Hashbot Dashboard](https://dashboard.hashbot.com) provides a visual interface for managing filters, allowlists, manager roles, and more — a convenient alternative to slash commands.
</Tip>

## What's Next?

Now that you have basic protection, consider these enhancements:

* **[Spam Scan & Auto Detection](/spam-detection)** - Catch Discord-flagged spammers automatically
* **[Profile Picture Protection](/pfp)** - Detect avatar impersonation
* **[Advanced Filters](/name-filters/phrase-and-regex)** - Use regex for complex patterns
* **[Templates](/templates)** - Apply pre-built filter collections
* **[Hashbot Safety Suite](/hashbot-safety-suite)** - Additional protection tools

## Need Help?

If you encounter issues during setup:

* Check our [FAQ](/frequently-asked-questions) for common problems
* Review [Hashbot Permissions](/hashbot-permissions) for role configuration
* [Join our Discord](https://discord.gg/hashbot) for personalized support

Your server now has basic Hashbot protection active! 🛡️