agent-install

Install the Datadog Agent on Linux hosts via SSH with SSI.

150|23|Updated Feb 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/datadog-labs/agent-skills --skill agent-install
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: agent-install
Source: https://github.com/datadog-labs/agent-skills/tree/main/dd-apm/linux-ssi/agent-install
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/datadog-labs/agent-skills --skill agent-install

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Installs the Datadog Agent on Linux hosts via SSH using Single Step Instrumentation (SSI) to automate agent onboarding without changing application code.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Deploy the Datadog Agent across bare-metal or cloud Linux instances via SSH with SSI enabled, reducing manual setup time.
  • Validate prerequisites, collect credentials, and verify agent health and hostname registration as part of the onboarding workflow.
  • Provide a guided, phase-based process (load credentials, gather infrastructure info, install, verify, discover services) to ensure reliable instrumentation.

Quick Start

Provide the target Linux hosts and SSH access details to begin installing the Datadog Agent with SSI.

Frequently Asked Questions about agent-install

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I install the Datadog Agent on Linux via SSH?

You can install the Datadog Agent on Linux via SSH by using Single Step Instrumentation (SSI), which automates agent onboarding without changing application code. Provide target host details, SSH credentials, and environment variables to begin.

What is Single Step Instrumentation for Datadog onboarding?

Single Step Instrumentation (SSI) is an automated onboarding process that deploys the Datadog Agent to instrument applications without code changes. It guides credential gathering, prerequisite validation, installation, and agent verification.

Do I need sudo privileges to deploy the Datadog Agent on Linux hosts?

Yes, deploying the Datadog Agent on Linux hosts requires SSH access with sudo privileges. You also need properly configured environment variables, specifically DD_API_KEY and DD_SITE, to run the installer and verify agent status.

Can I use SSI to automate Datadog Agent setup on bare-metal and cloud Linux instances?

Yes, SSI applies to both bare-metal and cloud Linux instances where the Datadog Agent is not yet installed. It reduces manual setup time by validating prerequisites, installing the agent, and verifying hostname registration.

What environment variables are required to run the Datadog Agent installer?

You must configure the DD_API_KEY and DD_SITE environment variables to run the Datadog Agent installer via SSH. These variables are essential for executing the installation and verifying the agent's health and registration.

Does installing the Datadog Agent with SSI require modifying my application code?

No, installing the Datadog Agent with SSI automates onboarding to instrument applications without code changes. The guided process handles infrastructure discovery and agent health verification directly through the SSH connection.