Sandbox Tool Runtime
Isolate code, file, browser, and shell execution for AI agents.
Key takeaways
- A sandbox limits the blast radius when an agent runs code, reads files, or calls external systems.
- Core sandbox responsibilities are isolation, resource limits, filesystem scope, network policy, and audit of commands and outputs.
- Prefer read-only tools before write tools, mount only the files the task needs, and treat generated code as untrusted until scanned.
- An agent that can run shell commands with production credentials is not a sandbox; it is production automation that needs stricter controls.
Tool execution is where AI systems can cause real harm. Sandbox boundaries limit the blast radius when an agent runs code, reads files, or interacts with external systems.
Sandbox Responsibilities
| Responsibility | Example |
|---|---|
| Isolation | Separate runtime for untrusted code |
| Resource limits | CPU, memory, disk, time |
| Filesystem scope | Only intended files and artifacts |
| Network policy | Restrict or approve outbound access |
| Audit | Record commands, files, and outputs |
Tool Runtime Rules
- Prefer read-only tools before write tools.
- Mount only the files required for the task.
- Treat generated code as untrusted until scanned and reviewed.
- Block secret access unless explicitly required.
- Preserve artifacts for debugging and audit.
Red Flag
If an agent can run shell commands with production credentials, the design is not a sandboxed tool runtime. It is production automation and needs stricter controls.