Overview
What is MCP Tunnel?
MCP Tunnel is a simple MCP server that allows accessing the command line of a VM machine. When started, it tunnels the host to the web so the VM can be accessed via the Model Context Protocol.
How to use MCP Tunnel?
Install globally with npm install -g mcp-cli and run mcp-cli, or run directly with npx mcp-cli. After starting, use the MCP tools execute_command and start_tunnel to send commands and create web tunnels. Optionally pass --no-tunnel to disable automatic tunneling.
Key features of MCP Tunnel
- Execute shell commands on a VM through MCP
- Web-based terminal interface for VM interaction
- Automatic tunneling for remote accessibility
- WebSocket-based real‑time communication
Use cases of MCP Tunnel
- Remotely run shell commands on a virtual machine
- Access a VM’s command line from any device with a web browser
- Develop and test scripts via a web terminal interface
- Expose a local VM temporarily over the internet
FAQ from MCP Tunnel
What are the prerequisites for MCP Tunnel?
Node.js version 18 or newer is required.
How can I start MCP Tunnel without automatic tunneling?
Add the --no-tunnel flag when starting, e.g., mcp-cli --no-tunnel or npm start -- --no-tunnel.
What MCP tools are available?
Two tools: execute_command (runs a shell command) and start_tunnel (creates a web tunnel with optional port and subdomain parameters).
How do I access the web interface?
After starting the tunnel, visit the URL provided by the tunnel service; the interface allows executing commands and seeing output in real time.
Is authentication or transport security mentioned?
The README does not specify authentication or transport security; it advises using strong auth mechanisms and limiting commands before exposing the tunnel.
