> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.pxxl.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Terminal

> Open a shell session inside the active runtime of a Pxxl project.

The **Terminal** tab opens a shell inside the active project runtime. It is useful for checking files, inspecting environment behavior, and confirming that a deployed process has the tools it needs.

<Frame caption="The project terminal connects to a selected runtime instance and streams shell output.">
  <img src="https://mintcdn.com/pxxl/BmMwkLenE04VSQYP/images/project-terminal.jpeg?fit=max&auto=format&n=BmMwkLenE04VSQYP&q=85&s=a2e413ae73d278195801fe1d892a9029" alt="Pxxl terminal screen connected to a project runtime with a shell prompt and file listing." width="5088" height="3482" data-path="images/project-terminal.jpeg" />
</Frame>

## Start a session

1. Open the project and select **Terminal**.
2. Choose the runtime instance when more than one is available.
3. Wait for the session to show **Connected**.
4. Run read-only checks or the command you need.
5. Select **Close session** when you are finished.

Use **Copy output** when you need to share a command result with a teammate.

## What belongs in the terminal

The terminal is best for short-lived investigation:

* list deployed files
* inspect a generated build
* check the current working directory
* verify a runtime command
* inspect a service process

Changes made directly inside a running container are not a deployment strategy. Put lasting changes in the repository, project secrets, or a persistent volume, then deploy again.

## Access

Terminal availability depends on the workspace plan and project runtime. If the control is unavailable, use Live Logs, a new deployment, or the project configuration instead.


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