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VibeKit’s local sandbox feature optionally runs coding agents inside Docker containers, providing isolation from your host system. The sandbox functionality is available but not enabled by default.

How It Works

When sandbox mode is enabled, VibeKit creates isolated Docker containers to run coding agents:
  • Container Isolation: Agent processes run inside Docker containers
  • Filesystem Control: Limited access to host filesystem through controlled mounts
  • Runtime Support: Works with Docker or Podman
  • Optional Feature: Sandbox can be enabled per-command or via settings

Configuration

Enable Sandbox Mode

Environment Variables

Settings Configuration

Configure sandbox in ~/.vibekit/settings.json:

Sandbox Management

Check Sandbox Status

Build Sandbox Image

Clean Up Sandbox Resources

Current Implementation

What’s Available

  • Docker/Podman Support: Configurable container runtime
  • Sandbox Detection: Automatic detection of available runtimes
  • Image Building: Build custom sandbox images
  • Status Reporting: Check sandbox readiness and configuration
  • Optional Operation: Works with or without sandboxing

Sandbox Engine Features

The sandbox engine provides:
  • Runtime detection (Docker/Podman availability)
  • Container image management
  • Configuration resolution from CLI options and settings
  • Execution orchestration between sandboxed and direct execution

Example Status Output

Benefits

Isolation

  • Process Isolation: Agent processes run in separate containers
  • Filesystem Protection: Host filesystem access is controlled
  • Resource Containment: Container resource limits prevent system impact

Flexibility

  • Optional Use: Enable only when needed for sensitive operations
  • Runtime Choice: Support for both Docker and Podman
  • Configuration Options: CLI flags, environment variables, or settings file

Development Safety

  • Safe Experimentation: Test potentially risky operations in isolation
  • Clean Environment: Fresh container state for reproducible results
  • Host Protection: Prevent accidental system modifications

Best Practices

When to Use Sandbox

  • Working with untrusted or experimental code
  • Testing potentially destructive operations
  • Ensuring reproducible development environments
  • Protecting sensitive host system configurations

Setup Recommendations

  1. Install Docker/Podman: Ensure container runtime is available
  2. Build Image: Pre-build sandbox image for faster startup
  3. Test Configuration: Verify sandbox status before important work
  4. Monitor Resources: Check container resource usage during long sessions

Security Considerations

  • Sandbox provides process isolation, not complete security
  • Container breakout vulnerabilities may still exist
  • Host filesystem mounts reduce isolation benefits
  • Keep container runtime updated for security patches
The local sandbox feature provides an additional layer of protection when running AI coding agents, offering configurable isolation without requiring it for basic operations.