execution

Execute shell commands and transfer files via SSH and SCP.

14|6|Updated Feb 13, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jholhewres/devclaw --skill execution-jholhewres
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: execution
Source: https://github.com/jholhewres/devclaw/tree/main/pkg/devclaw/copilot/builtin/skills/execution
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jholhewres/devclaw --skill execution-jholhewres

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Enables direct execution and orchestration of shell commands across local and remote machines, removing the friction of switching contexts and manually handling file transfers and environment setup.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Local and Remote Execution: Run commands in the local bash shell or via SSH to remote hosts using ~/.ssh/config aliases or direct host addresses.
  • File Transfer and Deployment: Use SCP to upload and download artifacts as part of build, deploy, or debugging workflows.
  • Session Persistence: Set environment variables for the session, chain commands reliably, and use sandboxed exec for limited runs.
  • Use Case: Build artifacts locally, SCP them to a production host, and restart the service over SSH to complete a deployment without leaving the agent context.

Quick Start

Ask the execution skill to run a local git status, SCP the latest build to the production host, and SSH into the server to restart the service.

Frequently Asked Questions about execution

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I run shell commands on a remote server via SSH?

Run shell commands on a remote server via SSH by connecting through ~/.ssh/config host aliases or direct host addresses. This requires configured SSH keys and appropriate user permissions for the requested operations. Session persistence allows setting environment variables and chaining commands reliably.

Can I transfer files with SCP for deployment workflows?

Yes, you can use SCP to transfer files for deployment workflows. The execution skill supports uploading and downloading artifacts to and from remote hosts to facilitate build, deploy, or debugging tasks without switching contexts.

What's the best way to orchestrate local builds and remote server restarts?

Orchestrate local builds and remote restarts by running a local build, using SCP to transfer the build artifact to the production host, and executing an SSH command to restart the service within a single session without leaving the agent context.

Do I need to configure SSH keys to execute remote shell commands?

Yes, executing remote shell commands and transferring files requires system shell access, configured SSH keys, and a ~/.ssh/config setup for remote hosts to ensure secure authentication and connectivity for remote operations.

Can I set environment variables for a local bash execution session?

Yes, you can set environment variables for a local bash execution session. The skill supports session persistence, allowing you to chain commands reliably and use sandboxed exec for limited runs.

Are there limitations when using sandboxed exec for shell commands?

Sandboxed exec is intended for limited runs of shell commands. While it provides a restricted execution environment, complex remote orchestration still requires proper SSH configuration and direct host connections for deployment and maintenance tasks.