xcode_resolve_packages · Xcode MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What xcode_resolve_packages does on Xcode

AI agents invoke xcode_resolve_packages to trigger actions in Xcode. What it does depends on the arguments the agent supplies, and its effects often reach beyond the immediate call — builds kicked off, notifications sent, workflows started.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why xcode_resolve_packages needs a policy

Resolving SPM dependencies triggers external network operations to fetch/download packages from remote repositories and modifies the local package resolution state. This goes beyond a simple read operation as it actively fetches remote content and updates lock files, making it an Execute-category action.

From the tool's definition Resolve Swift Package Manager dependencies

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

xcode_resolve_packages Rate-limited

xcode_resolve_packages stays usable, but rate-capped — a runaway agent can't fire it dozens of times a minute. Everything else on the server is denied unless you say otherwise.

View as policy code

policy.json

{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "xcode_resolve_packages": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "xcode_resolve_packages_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 10,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

RATE-LIMIT THIS TOOL →

Instant setup, no code required.

PolicyLayer is an MCP gateway: every tool call is checked against your rule before it reaches Xcode, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about xcode_resolve_packages

What does the xcode_resolve_packages tool do? +

Resolve Swift Package Manager dependencies. It is categorised as a Execute tool in the Xcode MCP Server, which means it can trigger actions or run processes. Use rate limits and argument validation.

How do I enforce a policy on xcode_resolve_packages? +

Register the Xcode MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for xcode_resolve_packages: 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 Xcode. Nothing to install.

What risk level is xcode_resolve_packages? +

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

Can I rate-limit xcode_resolve_packages? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the xcode_resolve_packages 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 xcode_resolve_packages completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for xcode_resolve_packages. 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 xcode_resolve_packages? +

xcode_resolve_packages is provided by the Xcode MCP server (raunaksplanet/xcode-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.