About

TunnelGPT connects ChatGPT to local projects

TunnelGPT is an independent macOS app that connects ChatGPT to local project files and local MCP servers through a Secure MCP Tunnel. File tools are scoped to a selected project folder. Native commands and external MCP servers use separate permissions. You choose what access to enable. TunnelGPT is not affiliated with OpenAI.

Each project connection has its own scope

Choose a folder in TunnelGPT and link it to that project's Secure MCP Tunnel. For file tools, access is scoped to the selected project folder, so connecting one folder does not automatically give those tools access to your other folders. Native execution and local MCPs are governed separately and may have access to additional approved paths or services.

In ChatGPT, select the connector for the project you want to use. One customer-owned runtime credential can support multiple authorized tunnels without mixing project identities.

Permissions determine what each tool can do

TunnelGPT starts file access in read-only mode. To edit files, enable editing for the selected project. The need to confirm an edit depends on the tool and mode; ChatGPT manages approval when applicable. Direct commands can modify files without a separate confirmation for each change.

Commands and shell scripts require a separate execution grant. You can choose an isolated Linux environment in Docker or advanced native execution on macOS, then review the folders and environment available to that mode.

Local MCP servers have their own permissions and data practices. Review the tools each server exposes and approve only the ones you want to use.

Your files stay on your computer, but requested results go to OpenAI

TunnelGPT runs the project connection and local MCPs on your computer. During normal operation, project files, connection credentials, and MCP request and response content do not pass through TunnelGPT's commercial servers. Credentials saved by the app stay in operating-system secure storage.

The whole project folder is not synced to ChatGPT. When you request a tool result, that result travels through the tunnel to OpenAI so ChatGPT can respond. Your original files remain on your computer. A local MCP can still send data to external services according to its own design and terms.

macOS on Apple Silicon is available now

TunnelGPT is available as a desktop app for macOS on Apple Silicon, including M1 and later. Your Mac must stay awake, online, and running Docker and the TunnelGPT connection while you use the project connector.

Windows (64-bit) has its own page with its current status: TunnelGPT for Windows. Linux is planned after the initial launch.

Try it for three days, then pay once

The 3-day free trial lasts 72 consecutive hours from your first successful connection, including time while disconnected. It has no hourly TunnelGPT usage quota. ChatGPT access and usage limits depend on your own OpenAI account.

If TunnelGPT fits your workflow, the version 1 Perpetual License costs $9.97 USD once. It is not a subscription, and future major versions are not included. TunnelGPT requires Docker 24 or later.

Start with the setup guide

Read the step-by-step setup guide before connecting a project. For data handling, see the privacy policy. The terms explain the version 1 license and customer-owned OpenAI access. If you need help, contact TunnelGPT support.