ssh-keychain-unlock

Automate macOS Keychain unlocking over SSH sessions for remote access.

3|1|Updated Mar 31, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/soulmachine/skills --skill ssh-keychain-unlock
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: ssh-keychain-unlock
Source: https://github.com/soulmachine/skills/tree/main/ssh-keychain-unlock
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/soulmachine/skills --skill ssh-keychain-unlock

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires security, launchctl, and includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Unlock the macOS keychain over SSH sessions to ensure Claude Code authentication on headless/remote Macs.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Interactive SSH Unlock: Add an interactive unlock command to the SSH session.
  • Auto-Unlock at Boot: Set up automatic unlocking on system startup for headless environments.
  • Quick Reference: Provide a table of common commands and their purposes.
  • Use Case: If you frequently access a remote Mac for Claude Code without a GUI, this Skill automates the keychain unlock process, preventing authentication issues.

Quick Start

To unlock your SSH keychain on a headless Mac for remote access, run: launchctl load ~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.claude.unlock-keychain.plist

Frequently Asked Questions about ssh-keychain-unlock

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I unlock the macOS Keychain over an SSH session?

To unlock the macOS Keychain over SSH, you can use an interactive unlock command within the SSH session or load a LaunchAgent plist to trigger the unlock process for remote access.

How do I automatically unlock the macOS Keychain at boot for a headless Mac?

You can set up automatic Keychain unlocking at system startup by loading a LaunchAgent, specifically running launchctl load on the com.claude.unlock-keychain plist file in your Library.

Why does Claude Code authentication fail on my remote Mac without a GUI?

Claude Code authentication fails on remote Macs without a GUI because the macOS Keychain remains locked during headless SSH sessions, preventing access to required credentials.

Can I use launchctl to automate Keychain unlocking for remote access?

Yes, you can use launchctl to automate Keychain unlocking by loading a LaunchAgent plist, which configures the system to handle the unlock process automatically for SSH sessions.

What security protocols are involved in automating SSH Keychain unlocking?

Automating SSH Keychain unlocking implements security protocols to ensure safe password handling and maintain system integrity during remote access operations on macOS.