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How to connect ChatGPT to your Linux server

Let ChatGPT run commands, read logs and manage files on a remote Linux VPS — no SSH client needed.

Managing a Linux VPS usually means opening a terminal, SSHing in and typing commands manually. With a remote MCP connector you can describe what you want in plain English and let ChatGPT do the work — from your browser or your phone.

What this guide covers

You will install the Shellway agent on your VPS, add it as a connector in ChatGPT, and run your first AI-assisted server command — without opening an SSH client.

What you need

  • A Linux VPS (Ubuntu 22.04+ or Debian 12+) with SSH access.
  • Node.js 22 or newer on the server (node --version to check; install with nodejs.org if needed).
  • A free Shellway account at mcp.getshellway.com/dashboard.
  • A ChatGPT Plus or Team plan (for connector support).

Step 1: get a pairing code

Sign in to the Shellway dashboard with Google and click Add computer. Copy the code that appears — it looks like SW-XXXX.

Step 2: install the agent on your VPS

SSH into your server and run these two commands, replacing SW-XXXX with your code:

npx shellway pair SW-XXXX
npx shellway start

The agent makes an outbound connection to Shellway. No open ports, no firewall changes needed.

To start automatically after a reboot:

npx shellway service install

Step 3: add the connector in ChatGPT

In ChatGPT open Settings → Apps & Connectors → Advanced settings, enable Developer mode, then create a new connector:

  • Name: Shellway
  • URL: https://mcp.getshellway.com/mcp
  • Auth: OAuth

Sign in when prompted and your VPS will appear in the Shellway dashboard as online.

Step 4: run your first command

Start a new ChatGPT chat, enable Shellway from the + menu and try:

  • "Show the last 50 lines of /var/log/syslog."
  • "How much disk space is free on this server?"
  • "List the running processes sorted by CPU usage."

Safety tips

  • Run the agent as a normal user (not root). It can only do what that user can do.
  • Use npx shellway start --readonly if you only want ChatGPT to read files and logs without making changes.
  • Remove the computer from the dashboard at any time to disconnect ChatGPT from your server instantly.

Ready to try? Create a free account — no card required.