sshocker is a command-line tool that combines SSH, reverse SSHFS, and port forwarding with a Docker-like interface.
The tool solves the problem of accessing and interacting with remote hosts by providing a unified command syntax similar to Docker. It allows developers to forward local ports to remote services and mount local directories on remote machines via reverse SSHFS, eliminating the need to remember separate SSH, sshfs, and port forwarding commands. The approach wraps these capabilities into a single `run` subcommand that accepts familiar flags like `-v` for volume mounts and `-p` for port exposure.
sshocker suits developers who frequently work with remote Linux servers and want a streamlined workflow without learning multiple tools. It is particularly useful for those already comfortable with Docker syntax who want similar ergonomics for remote host interaction. The tool requires sshfs to be installed on the server side for reverse SSHFS functionality and has been tested on macOS clients connecting to Linux servers, though Windows support is not guaranteed. The project explicitly positions itself as a predecessor to Lima, suggesting it represents an earlier approach to the problem it solves.
The project maintains a straightforward codebase written in Go with a focus on core functionality. Development activity centers on preserving the tool's existing capabilities rather than expanding its scope, reflecting its status as a predecessor project. The tool remains available for download and compilation from source, with documentation covering the essential flags and subcommands needed for typical usage patterns.