# Gemini CLI

Terminal-based coding agent that reads and changes files, runs shell commands, and can be extended through MCP, extensions, and skills.

Canonical profile: https://agenten-kompass.mmeierhoff.chatgpt.site/en/agents/gemini-cli/
Editor: [Michael Meierhoff](https://agenten-kompass.mmeierhoff.chatgpt.site/en/about/)
Sources reviewed: 2026-09-30
Basis: provider documentation. Examples are editorial suggestions, not hands-on product tests.

## Overview

Gemini CLI is Google's terminal-based agent for local development work. MCP, extensions, and skills supplement its built-in tools.

- Provider: Google
- Product family: Gemini
- Profile type: Local terminal agent
- Environment: Local terminal on macOS, Linux, Windows, or WSL
- Connections: Local files, shell, web search, MCP servers, extensions, and Agent Skills
- Setup: Set up Node.js, Gemini CLI, supported access, and a project directory
- Pricing model: Check access and usage

## Key features

### Edit files and code

Built-in tools read project files and suggest targeted changes.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/reference/tools/

### Use shell and web tools

The agent can run shell commands and search for information using built-in tools.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/reference/tools/

### Connect MCP servers

MCP provides additional tools, resources, and prompts through local or remote servers.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/tools/mcp-server/

### Load extensions and skills

Extensions bundle configuration and tools; Skills provide task-specific instructions and resources.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/cli/using-agent-skills/

### Approve tool calls

File changes and shell commands are assessed according to security policies and may require confirmation.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/reference/tools/

### Revert changes using a checkpoint

Optionally saved project and conversation states can be restored with the restore command.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/cli/checkpointing/

## Requirements and limits

### Local requirements and internet access

Requirement: Installation requirements include a supported operating system, Node.js, a shell, and internet access.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/get-started/installation/

### Sandbox depends on configuration

Limitation: Sandboxing must be configured for the platform; additional paths or network access may require separate approvals.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/cli/sandbox/

### Checkpoints are disabled by default

Limitation: Checkpoint recovery is available only after it has been enabled in the configuration.

Source: https://geminicli.com/docs/cli/checkpointing/

## Example workflows

### Make a small change in the terminal

- Your input: A local repository, project rules, and a narrow acceptance criterion.
- Possible result: A traceable diff with completed checks.
- What to check: Review suggested commands, file changes, and test results.

### Use a project tool through MCP

- Your input: A reviewed MCP server, minimal credentials, and a specific task.
- Possible result: A structured tool call with a result in the CLI context.
- What to check: Check the server source, shared tools, arguments, and external effects.

## Context

Configure tool permissions, sandbox, and project access carefully. Review changes, commands, and external MCP servers before approval.

Current official Gemini CLI documentation. Security behavior and available features depend on local configuration, version, and access.

## Sources

- https://geminicli.com/docs/reference/tools/

- https://geminicli.com/docs/tools/mcp-server/

- https://geminicli.com/docs/cli/sandbox/

- https://geminicli.com/docs/cli/using-agent-skills/

- https://geminicli.com/docs/cli/checkpointing/

- https://geminicli.com/docs/get-started/installation/

[Sources and method](https://agenten-kompass.mmeierhoff.chatgpt.site/en/sources/)