set_throttling · Plex MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What set_throttling does on PlexMCP

AI agents use set_throttling to create or update resources in PlexMCP — usually the action step of a workflow, after the agent has gathered context. Every call changes real data in your PlexMCP environment.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why set_throttling needs a policy

The tool modifies (writes) throttling configuration settings on the Plex Media Server. This is a reversible change to system parameters. It does not execute external code, delete data, involve financial transactions, or perform read-only operations.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'set_throttling' combined with description 'Configure throttling settings' indicates modification of system configuration parameters without irreversible deletion or financial impact.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

set_throttling Rate-limited

set_throttling stays usable, but capped — an agent stuck in a loop can't make hundreds of changes a minute. Everything else on the server is denied unless you say otherwise.

View as policy code

policy.json

{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "set_throttling": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "set_throttling_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

LIMIT THIS TOOL →

Instant setup, no code required.

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

FAQ

Questions about set_throttling

What does the set_throttling tool do? +

Configure throttling settings. It is categorised as a Write tool in the PlexMCP MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on set_throttling? +

Register the Plex MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for set_throttling: 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 PlexMCP. Nothing to install.

What risk level is set_throttling? +

set_throttling is a Write tool with medium risk. Write tools should be rate-limited to prevent accidental bulk modifications.

Can I rate-limit set_throttling? +

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

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

set_throttling is provided by the Plex MCP server (sandraschi/plexmcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.