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Open a Shell

Access running Endor services directly through SSH to run commands, install packages, or debug applications. All Endor services include a built-in SSH server for interactive access.

SSH Server Built-in

Every Endor service includes:

  • SSH server: Pre-configured and ready to use
  • Root access: Full administrative privileges
  • Port mapping: Default SSH port 2222 to avoid conflicts
  • No authentication: Streamlined for development use

Connect to Services

Access Service Shell

  1. 1

    Start your service with port exposure using the -P flag:

    Terminal window
    endor run alpine -P

    For network access, add the --allow-net flag (see Networking):

    Terminal window
    endor run alpine -P --allow-net
  2. 2

    Note the SSH port in the connection details:

    🚀 Endor
    Launching the Alpine environment
    ✅ Mission ready
    ✅ Connection established • Ready in 4.5s
    ╭──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────╮
    │ Alpine Connection Details │
    │ │
    │ Host: 127.0.0.1 │
    │ Ports: │
    │ - 2222 (host) <-> 2222 (guest) │
    │ Public network access: allowed │
    ╰──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────╯
  3. 3

    Connect via SSH using the displayed port:

    Terminal window
    ssh -o StrictHostKeyChecking=no -o UserKnownHostsFile=/dev/null root@localhost -p 2222
  4. 4

    Run commands directly in the service environment:

    Terminal window
    # Install packages
    apk add curl git
    # Test connectivity
    curl -I https://docs.endor.dev

Common Use Cases

Use shell access to:

  • Debug applications: Inspect logs and troubleshoot issues
  • Install software: Add packages not included in the base image
  • Configure services: Modify settings and configuration files
  • Run scripts: Execute custom automation or setup scripts
  • File management: Create, edit, or transfer files

AI Agent Integration

AI agents can also access service shells through the MCP interface, enabling automated:

  • Package installation and configuration
  • File system operations
  • Service debugging and monitoring
  • Custom script execution

Learn more about MCP integration and how AI agents can manage your Endor services.