Install TerminaLink.

Install one small local service on the computer or VPS you want ChatGPT to use. The service connects outward to TerminaLink, so you do not open an inbound terminal port.

1. Connect TerminaLink in ChatGPT

Add the TerminaLink MCP connection in ChatGPT and sign in to your TerminaLink account. ChatGPT connection controls depend on your plan and workspace settings.

2. Install the local service

The local service requires Node.js 22 or later. Use the install command shown in your account dashboard; it identifies the relay and starts pairing.

node --version

Open your account dashboard to get the install command.

3. Pair your computer

Approve the named computer and pairing code in your browser. The local service stores its runtime and credentials in your user application-data directory and starts at login. New ChatGPT sessions use the computer selected in your dashboard.

4. Choose permissions

Select the project folder and a supported network policy. Commands use the sandbox by default. Fixed diagnostics, approved host-file reads, and temporary full system access have separate controls. See platform capabilities.

Useful local commands

terminalink statusShow local service and pairing status.

terminalink doctorCheck the local installation and connectivity.

terminalink dashboardOpen your TerminaLink account dashboard.

terminalink usageShow the current tool-call allowance and usage.

terminalink unpairRevoke this computer's current pairing.

terminalink uninstallRemove the local service. Use the purge option when you also want TerminaLink local configuration and logs removed.

If the computer is offline

TerminaLink does not fall back to a different paired computer. Reconnect the selected computer or choose another device for new sessions in the dashboard.

For access boundaries and current platform enforcement, read Security. For setup problems, use Support.