Run one or more named algorithms on media. Provide algorithm IDs (from list_algorithms) and either a public media_url or base64-encoded media content. For text, use the text param. Returns a job_id for async processing — use check_job to poll for results. Requires credits.
Risk signalsAccepts file system path (filename) · Accepts URL/endpoint input (webhook_url)
Part of the Sidearm server.
Free to start. No card required.
AI agents invoke run_algorithm to trigger processes or run actions in Sidearm. 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.
run_algorithm 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.
{
"version": "1",
"default": "deny",
"tools": {
"run_algorithm": {
"limits": [
{
"counter": "run_algorithm_rate",
"window": "minute",
"max": 10,
"scope": "grant"
}
]
}
}
}See the full Sidearm policy for all 19 tools.
These attack patterns abuse exactly the kind of access run_algorithm gives an agent. Each links to the full case and the policy that stops it:
Other execute tools across the catalogue. The same approach applies to each: rate-limit and validate the arguments.
Run one or more named algorithms on media. Provide algorithm IDs (from list_algorithms) and either a public media_url or base64-encoded media content. For text, use the text param. Returns a job_id for async processing — use check_job to poll for results. Requires credits.. It is categorised as a Execute tool in the Sidearm MCP Server, which means it can trigger actions or run processes. Use rate limits and argument validation.
Register the Sidearm MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for run_algorithm: 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 Sidearm. Nothing to install.
run_algorithm is a Execute tool with high risk. Execute tools should be rate-limited and have argument validation enabled.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the run_algorithm 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.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for run_algorithm. 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.
run_algorithm is provided by the Sidearm MCP server (sidearmdrm/sidearm). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
Deterministic rules across all 19 Sidearm tools. Per-identity grants. Full audit log. Live in minutes. Nothing to install.
Free to start. No card required.
4,600+ MCP servers and 31,000+ tools scanned and risk-classified.