gcp-vm-ssh

Generate SSH commands and configure port forwarding tunnels for GCP VMs.

10|4|Updated Feb 1, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/kubony/openclaw-gcp-setup --skill gcp-vm-ssh
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: gcp-vm-ssh
Source: https://github.com/kubony/openclaw-gcp-setup/tree/main/.claude/skills/gcp-vm-ssh
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/kubony/openclaw-gcp-setup --skill gcp-vm-ssh

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill enables secure SSH access to Google Cloud Platform (GCP) VMs and simplifies setting up port forwardings and tunnels, including IAP-based access for instances without external IPs.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • SSH into GCP VMs using gcloud or direct SSH commands.
  • Establish local port forwards or tunnels (e.g., 8080:localhost:8080) for web apps, dev servers, or SSH sessions.
  • Use IAP tunnels when external IPs are unavailable or restricted, enabling remote access from a secure channel.

Quick Start

Use the gcp-vm-ssh skill to generate an SSH command for a VM and to configure a tunnel.

  • List VMs: gcloud compute instances list
  • SSH into a VM: gcloud compute ssh VM_NAME --zone=ZONE --project=PROJECT_ID
  • Tunnel a local port: gcloud compute ssh VM_NAME --zone=ZONE -- -L 8080:localhost:8080

Frequently Asked Questions about gcp-vm-ssh

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I SSH into a GCP VM that does not have an external IP address?

To SSH into a GCP VM without an external IP, you use an IAP tunnel to establish a secure channel. This skill generates gcloud compute ssh commands configured for IAP-based access, enabling remote connections to restricted instances.

What is the best way to set up local port forwarding to a GCP VM?

The best way to set up local port forwarding to a GCP VM is using SSH tunneling. This skill generates gcloud compute ssh commands with -L flags, mapping local ports like 8080:localhost:8080 to remote dev servers or web apps.

How do I list GCP compute instances and generate an SSH command for a specific VM?

You list GCP compute instances using gcloud compute instances list, then generate an SSH command specifying the VM name, zone, and project. This skill consolidates VM discovery and command generation into a single workflow.

Can I use gcloud to create an SSH tunnel for a web app running on port 8080?

Yes, you can use gcloud to create an SSH tunnel for a web app on port 8200. This skill builds the gcloud compute ssh command with local port forwarding arguments, securely connecting your local environment to the remote application.

Does this SSH access method require external IPs on my GCP instances?

No, this SSH access method does not require external IPs on your GCP instances. It supports IAP tunnels, allowing you to bypass external IP requirements and securely access internal VMs through a protected channel.