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ssh_session_start

Establish a persistent SSH session to a target host. Supports password or key-based authentication, custom username, port, and returns a session ID for ongoing management.

Instructions

Start a persistent SSH session to a target host.

Args: target: Target hostname or IP username: SSH username (default: root) password: SSH password (if using password auth) key_file: Path to SSH private key file (if using key auth) port: SSH port (default: 22) session_id: Optional session identifier (auto-generated if empty)

Returns: Session ID and connection status

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
portNo
targetYes
key_fileNo
passwordNo
usernameNoroot
session_idNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It mentions 'persistent SSH session' and return values, but lacks details on side effects like network usage or authentication failure behavior.

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 well-structured with Args and Returns sections, though slightly verbose with default values; could be more concise.

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

Completeness3/5

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

Given the tool's complexity (6 parameters, authentication options), the description covers basic usage but lacks guidance on error handling, session management, and when to choose password vs key authentication.

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

Parameters5/5

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

With 0% schema description coverage, the description excellently compensates by explaining each parameter's purpose, defaults, and conditions (e.g., 'if using password auth', 'if using key auth').

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 action ('Start a persistent SSH session') and the target ('to a target host'), effectively distinguishing from sibling tools like ssh_session_command and ssh_session_status.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

The description provides parameter details but no explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives, nor any prerequisites or exclusions.

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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