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instances_restart

Restart one or more running VM instances by UUID.

Part of the Mcp server.

instances_restart can trigger actions in Mcp, with no limits today. PolicyLayer puts allow, deny, and rate-limit rules on every call. Live in minutes.

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AI agents invoke instances_restart to trigger processes or run actions in Mcp. Execute operations can have side effects beyond the immediate call -- triggering builds, sending notifications, or starting workflows. Rate limits and argument validation are essential to prevent runaway execution.

instances_restart can trigger processes with real-world consequences. An uncontrolled agent might start dozens of builds, send mass notifications, or kick off expensive compute jobs. PolicyLayer enforces rate limits and validates arguments to keep execution within safe bounds.

Execute tools trigger processes. Rate-limit and validate arguments to prevent unintended side effects.

policy.json
{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "instances_restart": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "instances_restart_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 10,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

See the full Mcp policy for all 14 tools.

Get this rule live on your own Mcp server in minutes. PolicyLayer enforces it on every call, before it runs.

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These attack patterns abuse exactly the kind of access instances_restart gives an agent. Each links to the full case and the policy that stops it:

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Every attack above starts with a tool call. PolicyLayer checks each one against your policy first, so instances_restart only ever does what you allow.

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Other execute tools across the catalogue. The same approach applies to each: rate-limit and validate the arguments.

What does the instances_restart tool do? +

Restart one or more running VM instances by UUID.. It is categorised as a Execute tool in the Mcp MCP Server, which means it can trigger actions or run processes. Use rate limits and argument validation.

How do I enforce a policy on instances_restart? +

Register the MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for instances_restart: allow, deny, rate-limit, or require approval. Point your MCP client at the PolicyLayer proxy URL and the rule is enforced on every call, before it reaches Mcp. Nothing to install.

What risk level is instances_restart? +

instances_restart is a Execute tool with high risk. Execute tools should be rate-limited and have argument validation enabled.

Can I rate-limit instances_restart? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the instances_restart rule in your PolicyLayer policy. For example, setting max: 10 and window: 60 limits the tool to 10 calls per minute. Rate limits are tracked per agent session and reset automatically.

How do I block instances_restart completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for instances_restart. The AI agent will receive a policy violation error and cannot call the tool. You can also include a reason field to explain why the tool is blocked.

What MCP server provides instances_restart? +

instances_restart is provided by the MCP server (massed-compute-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.

Enforce policy on every Mcp tool call.

Deterministic rules across all 14 Mcp tools. Per-identity grants. Full audit log. Live in minutes. Nothing to install.

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4,600+ MCP servers and 31,000+ tools scanned and risk-classified.

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