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swarm_unlock

Unlock a Docker Swarm manager node that is locked after restart due to autolock being enabled. Provide the unlock key to resume scheduling.

Instructions

Unlock a manager node that is locked after restart due to autolock being enabled.

When autolock is enabled (via swarm_init or swarm_update), manager nodes require the unlock key after every restart before they can rejoin the swarm and resume scheduling. Must be called on the locked manager node directly. Retrieve the current unlock key with swarm_unlock_key from any unlocked manager — store it securely when enabling autolock. A locked node cannot serve API requests and cannot return its own key while locked; other unlocked managers in the swarm can still serve the key. Once unlocked the manager resumes automatically.

args: key - The swarm unlock key (from swarm_unlock_key) returns: bool - True after the swarm is unlocked

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
keyYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

The description adds behavioral traits beyond annotations: must be called on the locked node, effect of resuming automatically, and the locked node's inability to serve API requests. No contradiction with annotations (readOnlyHint=false, destructiveHint=false).

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is somewhat long but well-structured: problem statement, context, then args/returns. Every sentence adds value; no redundancy.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the single parameter and output schema (returns bool), the description covers prerequisites, scenario, limitation, and result fully. No missing context.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The single parameter 'key' is explained with its source ('from swarm_unlock_key'), adding meaning beyond the schema which has no description. Schema coverage is 0%, so description compensates well.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool unlocks a manager node locked due to autolock, with specific verb 'Unlock' and resource 'manager node', and distinguishes from related tools like swarm_init, swarm_update, and swarm_unlock_key.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

It specifies that the tool must be called on the locked manager node directly and explains the prerequisite of obtaining the key via swarm_unlock_key. It does not explicitly state when not to use, but the context is clear.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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