# Configure an Interaction Instance

An interaction instance is a configurable local roster member with canonical `class: interaction` and matching `tool_policy: interaction`. “Tess” may be used as a display alias, but neither that alias nor the stable name is required or authority-bearing.

Use the [validated generic roster](../examples/roster-v2.yaml) as the safe shape. Choose a unique stable `name`, any descriptive `alias`, a supported declared runtime, explicit provider/model/reasoning, and a safe work directory. Start with:

```yaml
name: interaction-example
alias: Interaction Example
class: interaction
tool_policy: interaction
lifecycle:
  enabled: true
  desired_state: stopped
```

Plan the complete agent payload with the current roster generation, then create it without `--persisted-start`. Creation defaults to enabled/stopped and performs no runtime action. Review the resulting roster and projection plan before any later lifecycle decision.

The interaction class is request/status only. It cannot orchestrate, issue leases, mutate the roster/configuration, grant credentials, certify validation, approve landing, or merge. Connector and channel configuration are outside roster v2; do not add connector, channel, secret, command, remote-host, or gateway fields.

See [safe CRUD](create-update-delete-agent.md), [identity separation](../concepts/identity-class-runtime.md), and [role authority](../concepts/role-authority-and-leases.md).