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:

   endor run alpine -P

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

   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:

   ssh -o StrictHostKeyChecking=no -o UserKnownHostsFile=/dev/null root@localhost -p 2222

4. 4

   Run commands directly in the service environment:

   # 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.