Glossary – Codex

Use this glossary as a quick reference for Codex terms across the app, CLI, IDE extension, cloud, SDK, and related integrations.

Term	Definition	Applies to
Agent	The Codex worker that reasons over context, uses tools, and completes a task.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud
AGENTS.md	Repository or user guidance file that gives Codex persistent instructions.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud
Analytics dashboard	Admin view for Codex usage, adoption, and code review metrics.	Enterprise
API key sign-in	Authentication using an OpenAI API key.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Approval policy	Rules for when Codex must ask before taking an action.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Approval request	Codex asking to allow a restricted action.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Apps (connectors)	Integration that lets Codex access external services. Available through plugins; also called connectors.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Appshot	Snapshot of the frontmost app window sent to a Codex thread.	App
Auth cache	Locally stored login credentials reused by Codex.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Automatic approval review	Model-based review of eligible approval requests before they proceed.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Automation	A scheduled or recurring Codex task.	App
Automation run	One execution of a scheduled automation that may report findings or archive itself.	App
Browser use	App capability that lets Codex operate the in-app browser directly.	App
Chat	A Codex conversation not tied to a project.	App
ChatGPT sign-in	Authentication using a ChatGPT account and workspace permissions.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud
Chronicle	Opt-in feature that builds memories from recent screen context.	App
Cloud	Mode where Codex works remotely in an OpenAI-managed environment.	App, IDE extension, Web
Cloud environment	Configured container setup used for Codex cloud tasks.	Cloud
Cloud task	A remotely executed Codex task that runs in a cloud environment.	Cloud
Cloud thread	A thread that runs in a Codex cloud environment.	Cloud
Codex	OpenAI's coding agent for software development tasks.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Web, Cloud, SDK
Codex app	Desktop app for running Codex threads in parallel, with built-in worktree support, automations, and Git functionality.	Desktop
Codex app-server	Local JSON-RPC server for embedding Codex threads, turns, approvals, history, and streamed events in custom clients.	App, IDE extension, SDK
Codex CLI	Terminal client for running Codex interactively or in scripts.	Terminal
Codex cloud	OpenAI-managed execution environment where Codex can work on repository tasks remotely.	Web, App, IDE extension
codex exec	CLI command for running Codex non-interactively from scripts or CI.	CLI
Codex IDE extension	Editor integration for using Codex inside IDEs like VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, Cursor, and Windsurf.	IDE
Codex SDK	Programmatic interface for building Codex-powered workflows or integrations.	SDK
Codex web	Browser-based Codex surface for delegating cloud tasks.	Browser
Codex-managed worktree	A temporary worktree Codex creates and manages for a thread.	App
Compaction	Summarizing older context so long-running work can continue.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud
Compliance API	API for exporting Codex activity and audit metadata.	Enterprise
Computer use	App capability that lets Codex interact with desktop applications through the UI.	App
config.toml	Local Codex configuration files.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Connected host	Computer or development environment that provides files, tools, and shell access for remote Codex work.	App, Mobile
Connector	App integration that lets Codex access external services. Available through plugins; also called apps.	App, Cloud
Container cache	Saved cloud container state reused to speed up future tasks.	Cloud
Context	Information Codex can use while working, such as files, prior messages, tool output, and instructions.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK
Context window	The maximum amount of information the model can consider at once.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK
Custom agent	User-defined agent role with its own instructions and settings.	App, CLI
Deny-read rule	Filesystem permission rule that prevents Codex from reading sensitive paths or glob matches.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Enterprise
Diff	Set of Git file changes shown for inspection, comments, staging, or reverting.	App, Git, Review
Domain allowlist	Set of domains Codex cloud can reach when agent internet access is enabled.	Cloud
Environment (local)	App configuration to tell Codex how to set up worktrees for a project.	App, Worktree
Environment variable	Runtime configuration value available during task execution.	Cloud, CLI, IDE extension
Ephemeral session	Non-interactive run that skips saving session state after it completes.	CLI
Fast mode	Speed setting that makes supported models respond faster at a higher credit cost.	CLI, IDE extension
Filesystem permission	Permission profile rule that grants or denies read and write access to paths.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Finding	A notable result or issue surfaced by an automation.	App
Full access	Mode where Codex runs without normal sandbox restrictions.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Git worktree	A second checkout of the same repository for parallel branch work.	App, Git
Handoff	Moving a thread and its work between Local and Worktree.	App
Heartbeat	A recurring thread wake-up that returns Codex to the same conversation on a schedule. Also called a thread automation.	App
Hook	A lifecycle handler that runs when a Codex event matches, such as tool use, permission requests, or when a turn stops.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Hook event	Lifecycle point where configured hook handlers can run.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Hunk	Contiguous section of a diff that can be staged, unstaged, or reverted independently.	App, Git, Review
Inline comment	Line-specific feedback attached to a diff.	App
Live web search	Real-time web lookup for current information.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Local	Mode where Codex works on the user's computer.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Local thread	A thread that runs on the user's machine.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Maintenance script	Optional script run when a cached cloud container resumes.	Cloud
Managed configuration	Organization-controlled Codex defaults and restrictions.	Enterprise
MCP	Model Context Protocol, a standard for connecting Codex to external tools and context.	App, CLI, IDE extension
MCP resource	Readable context exposed by an MCP server for Codex to inspect.	App, CLI, IDE extension
MCP server	External tool or context provider exposed through MCP.	App, CLI, IDE extension
MCP tool	Action exposed by an MCP server that Codex can call during a task.	App, CLI, IDE extension
MDM	Mobile device management tooling for distributing device profiles and managed Codex settings.	Enterprise
Memories	Locally stored context Codex can reuse across sessions.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Model	The AI model Codex uses for reasoning and tool work.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK
Network access	Permission for commands or environments to reach the internet.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud
Network policy	Domain-based allow and deny rules that constrain sandboxed outbound network traffic.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Non-interactive mode	CLI mode for running Codex from scripts or CI.	CLI
Output schema	JSON Schema passed to `codex exec` to constrain the final response.	CLI
Permanent worktree	A long-lived worktree kept as its own project.	App
Permission profile	Named least-privilege policy that combines filesystem and network rules for local command execution.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Plan	Codex's proposed or tracked steps for completing a task.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud
Plugin	Installable bundle that can distribute skills, tools, and integrations.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Plugin manifest	Plugin metadata file that identifies a plugin and points to bundled skills, apps, MCP servers, hooks, and metadata.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Plugins
Prefix rule	Command-rule pattern that allows, prompts for, or forbids matching command prefixes.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Enterprise
Profile	Named configuration preset for Codex.	CLI, IDE extension
Progressive disclosure	Loading skill details only when needed to preserve context.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Project	A selected codebase or folder Codex works in.	App
Prompt	The user instruction or request sent to Codex.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK
Pull request review	Codex review of changes or feedback on a pull request.	App, CLI, GitHub
RBAC	Role-based access control for workspace permissions.	Enterprise
Read-only mode	Mode where Codex can inspect but not modify without approval.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Reasoning effort	Setting that controls how much reasoning budget a model uses.	App, CLI, IDE extension, SDK
Remote connection	Connection that lets Codex work from another device using a connected host.	App, Mobile
requirements.toml	Admin-enforced requirements file for managed Codex setups.	Enterprise
Review pane	App view for inspecting diffs, comments, and Git changes.	App
Rules	Policies that allow, prompt for, or deny command prefixes or permission exceptions.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Sandbox	Enforced boundary limiting what Codex commands can access or modify.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Sandbox mode	Configuration that defines Codex's filesystem and network limits.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Sandbox preset	SDK shorthand for common sandbox policies such as read-only, workspace-write, or full access.	SDK
Schedule	The timing rule for an automation.	App
Secret	Encrypted value available to setup scripts but removed before the agent phase.	Cloud
Setup script	Script run before the agent starts to install dependencies or prepare tools.	App worktrees
Skill	Reusable workflow package with instructions and optional scripts or references.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Skill invocation	Explicit or implicit activation of a skill.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Slash command	Command entered with a leading slash to control or inspect a Codex CLI session.	CLI
Standalone automation	Independent scheduled run that reports separate findings.	App
STDIO MCP server	MCP server launched as a local process by a configured command and arguments.	CLI, IDE extension
Streamable HTTP MCP server	MCP server reached over HTTP, optionally with bearer token or OAuth authentication.	CLI, IDE extension
Subagent	Specialized child agent spawned to work on part of a task.	App, CLI
Subagent workflow	Workflow where Codex runs delegated agents in parallel and combines their results.	App, CLI
Task	The unit of work Codex is asked to complete.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK
Thread	A single Codex session containing prompts, model output, and tool activity.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK
Thread automation	Recurring wake-up attached to an existing thread. Also called a heartbeat.	App
Thread fork	New thread branched from the stored history of an existing thread.	App-server, SDK
Turn	One exchange in a thread, usually a user prompt plus Codex's response and actions.	App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK
Universal image	Default Codex cloud container image with common tools preinstalled.	Cloud
Web search cache	Pre-indexed search results Codex can use without live browsing.	App, CLI, IDE extension
Worktree	Mode where Codex isolates changes in a separate Git worktree.	App
Writable roots	Directories Codex is allowed to modify.	App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Agent

Definition

The Codex worker that reasons over context, uses tools, and completes a task.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

Term

AGENTS.md

Definition

Repository or user guidance file that gives Codex persistent instructions.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

Term

Analytics dashboard

Definition

Admin view for Codex usage, adoption, and code review metrics.

Applies to

Enterprise

Term

API key sign-in

Definition

Authentication using an OpenAI API key.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Approval policy

Definition

Rules for when Codex must ask before taking an action.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Approval request

Definition

Codex asking to allow a restricted action.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Apps (connectors)

Definition

Integration that lets Codex access external services. Available through plugins; also called connectors.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Appshot

Definition

Snapshot of the frontmost app window sent to a Codex thread.

Applies to

App

Term

Auth cache

Definition

Locally stored login credentials reused by Codex.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Automatic approval review

Definition

Model-based review of eligible approval requests before they proceed.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Automation

Definition

A scheduled or recurring Codex task.

Applies to

App

Term

Automation run

Definition

One execution of a scheduled automation that may report findings or archive itself.

Applies to

App

Term

Browser use

Definition

App capability that lets Codex operate the in-app browser directly.

Applies to

App

Term

Chat

Definition

A Codex conversation not tied to a project.

Applies to

App

Term

ChatGPT sign-in

Definition

Authentication using a ChatGPT account and workspace permissions.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

Term

Chronicle

Definition

Opt-in feature that builds memories from recent screen context.

Applies to

App

Term

Cloud

Definition

Mode where Codex works remotely in an OpenAI-managed environment.

Applies to

App, IDE extension, Web

Term

Cloud environment

Definition

Configured container setup used for Codex cloud tasks.

Applies to

Cloud

Term

Cloud task

Definition

A remotely executed Codex task that runs in a cloud environment.

Applies to

Cloud

Term

Cloud thread

Definition

A thread that runs in a Codex cloud environment.

Applies to

Cloud

Term

Codex

Definition

OpenAI's coding agent for software development tasks.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Web, Cloud, SDK

Term

Codex app

Definition

Desktop app for running Codex threads in parallel, with built-in worktree support, automations, and Git functionality.

Applies to

Desktop

Term

Codex app-server

Definition

Local JSON-RPC server for embedding Codex threads, turns, approvals, history, and streamed events in custom clients.

Applies to

App, IDE extension, SDK

Term

Codex CLI

Definition

Terminal client for running Codex interactively or in scripts.

Applies to

Terminal

Term

Codex cloud

Definition

OpenAI-managed execution environment where Codex can work on repository tasks remotely.

Applies to

Web, App, IDE extension

Term

codex exec

Definition

CLI command for running Codex non-interactively from scripts or CI.

Applies to

CLI

Term

Codex IDE extension

Definition

Editor integration for using Codex inside IDEs like VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, Cursor, and Windsurf.

Applies to

IDE

Term

Codex SDK

Definition

Programmatic interface for building Codex-powered workflows or integrations.

Applies to

SDK

Term

Codex web

Definition

Browser-based Codex surface for delegating cloud tasks.

Applies to

Browser

Term

Codex-managed worktree

Definition

A temporary worktree Codex creates and manages for a thread.

Applies to

App

Term

Compaction

Definition

Summarizing older context so long-running work can continue.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

Term

Compliance API

Definition

API for exporting Codex activity and audit metadata.

Applies to

Enterprise

Term

Computer use

Definition

App capability that lets Codex interact with desktop applications through the UI.

Applies to

App

Term

config.toml

Definition

Local Codex configuration files.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Connected host

Definition

Computer or development environment that provides files, tools, and shell access for remote Codex work.

Applies to

App, Mobile

Term

Connector

Definition

App integration that lets Codex access external services. Available through plugins; also called apps.

Applies to

App, Cloud

Term

Container cache

Definition

Saved cloud container state reused to speed up future tasks.

Applies to

Cloud

Term

Context

Definition

Information Codex can use while working, such as files, prior messages, tool output, and instructions.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

Term

Context window

Definition

The maximum amount of information the model can consider at once.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

Term

Custom agent

Definition

User-defined agent role with its own instructions and settings.

Applies to

App, CLI

Term

Deny-read rule

Definition

Filesystem permission rule that prevents Codex from reading sensitive paths or glob matches.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Enterprise

Term

Diff

Definition

Set of Git file changes shown for inspection, comments, staging, or reverting.

Applies to

App, Git, Review

Term

Domain allowlist

Definition

Set of domains Codex cloud can reach when agent internet access is enabled.

Applies to

Cloud

Term

Environment (local)

Definition

App configuration to tell Codex how to set up worktrees for a project.

Applies to

App, Worktree

Term

Environment variable

Definition

Runtime configuration value available during task execution.

Applies to

Cloud, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Ephemeral session

Definition

Non-interactive run that skips saving session state after it completes.

Applies to

CLI

Term

Fast mode

Definition

Speed setting that makes supported models respond faster at a higher credit cost.

Applies to

CLI, IDE extension

Term

Filesystem permission

Definition

Permission profile rule that grants or denies read and write access to paths.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Finding

Definition

A notable result or issue surfaced by an automation.

Applies to

App

Term

Full access

Definition

Mode where Codex runs without normal sandbox restrictions.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Git worktree

Definition

A second checkout of the same repository for parallel branch work.

Applies to

App, Git

Term

Handoff

Definition

Moving a thread and its work between Local and Worktree.

Applies to

App

Term

Heartbeat

Definition

A recurring thread wake-up that returns Codex to the same conversation on a schedule. Also called a thread automation.

Applies to

App

Term

Hook

Definition

A lifecycle handler that runs when a Codex event matches, such as tool use, permission requests, or when a turn stops.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Hook event

Definition

Lifecycle point where configured hook handlers can run.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Hunk

Definition

Contiguous section of a diff that can be staged, unstaged, or reverted independently.

Applies to

App, Git, Review

Term

Inline comment

Definition

Line-specific feedback attached to a diff.

Applies to

App

Term

Live web search

Definition

Real-time web lookup for current information.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Local

Definition

Mode where Codex works on the user's computer.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Local thread

Definition

A thread that runs on the user's machine.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Maintenance script

Definition

Optional script run when a cached cloud container resumes.

Applies to

Cloud

Term

Managed configuration

Definition

Organization-controlled Codex defaults and restrictions.

Applies to

Enterprise

Term

MCP

Definition

Model Context Protocol, a standard for connecting Codex to external tools and context.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

MCP resource

Definition

Readable context exposed by an MCP server for Codex to inspect.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

MCP server

Definition

External tool or context provider exposed through MCP.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

MCP tool

Definition

Action exposed by an MCP server that Codex can call during a task.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

MDM

Definition

Mobile device management tooling for distributing device profiles and managed Codex settings.

Applies to

Enterprise

Term

Memories

Definition

Locally stored context Codex can reuse across sessions.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Model

Definition

The AI model Codex uses for reasoning and tool work.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

Term

Network access

Definition

Permission for commands or environments to reach the internet.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

Term

Network policy

Definition

Domain-based allow and deny rules that constrain sandboxed outbound network traffic.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Non-interactive mode

Definition

CLI mode for running Codex from scripts or CI.

Applies to

CLI

Term

Output schema

Definition

JSON Schema passed to codex exec to constrain the final response.

Applies to

CLI

Term

Permanent worktree

Definition

A long-lived worktree kept as its own project.

Applies to

App

Term

Permission profile

Definition

Named least-privilege policy that combines filesystem and network rules for local command execution.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Plan

Definition

Codex's proposed or tracked steps for completing a task.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

Term

Plugin

Definition

Installable bundle that can distribute skills, tools, and integrations.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Plugin manifest

Definition

Plugin metadata file that identifies a plugin and points to bundled skills, apps, MCP servers, hooks, and metadata.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Plugins

Term

Prefix rule

Definition

Command-rule pattern that allows, prompts for, or forbids matching command prefixes.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Enterprise

Term

Profile

Definition

Named configuration preset for Codex.

Applies to

CLI, IDE extension

Term

Progressive disclosure

Definition

Loading skill details only when needed to preserve context.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Project

Definition

A selected codebase or folder Codex works in.

Applies to

App

Term

Prompt

Definition

The user instruction or request sent to Codex.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

Term

Pull request review

Definition

Codex review of changes or feedback on a pull request.

Applies to

App, CLI, GitHub

Term

RBAC

Definition

Role-based access control for workspace permissions.

Applies to

Enterprise

Term

Read-only mode

Definition

Mode where Codex can inspect but not modify without approval.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Reasoning effort

Definition

Setting that controls how much reasoning budget a model uses.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, SDK

Term

Remote connection

Definition

Connection that lets Codex work from another device using a connected host.

Applies to

App, Mobile

Term

requirements.toml

Definition

Admin-enforced requirements file for managed Codex setups.

Applies to

Enterprise

Term

Review pane

Definition

App view for inspecting diffs, comments, and Git changes.

Applies to

App

Term

Rules

Definition

Policies that allow, prompt for, or deny command prefixes or permission exceptions.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Sandbox

Definition

Enforced boundary limiting what Codex commands can access or modify.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Sandbox mode

Definition

Configuration that defines Codex's filesystem and network limits.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Sandbox preset

Definition

SDK shorthand for common sandbox policies such as read-only, workspace-write, or full access.

Applies to

SDK

Term

Schedule

Definition

The timing rule for an automation.

Applies to

App

Term

Secret

Definition

Encrypted value available to setup scripts but removed before the agent phase.

Applies to

Cloud

Term

Setup script

Definition

Script run before the agent starts to install dependencies or prepare tools.

Applies to

App worktrees

Term

Skill

Definition

Reusable workflow package with instructions and optional scripts or references.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Skill invocation

Definition

Explicit or implicit activation of a skill.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Slash command

Definition

Command entered with a leading slash to control or inspect a Codex CLI session.

Applies to

CLI

Term

Standalone automation

Definition

Independent scheduled run that reports separate findings.

Applies to

App

Term

STDIO MCP server

Definition

MCP server launched as a local process by a configured command and arguments.

Applies to

CLI, IDE extension

Term

Streamable HTTP MCP server

Definition

MCP server reached over HTTP, optionally with bearer token or OAuth authentication.

Applies to

CLI, IDE extension

Term

Subagent

Definition

Specialized child agent spawned to work on part of a task.

Applies to

App, CLI

Term

Subagent workflow

Definition

Workflow where Codex runs delegated agents in parallel and combines their results.

Applies to

App, CLI

Term

Task

Definition

The unit of work Codex is asked to complete.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

Term

Thread

Definition

A single Codex session containing prompts, model output, and tool activity.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

Term

Thread automation

Definition

Recurring wake-up attached to an existing thread. Also called a heartbeat.

Applies to

App

Term

Thread fork

Definition

New thread branched from the stored history of an existing thread.

Applies to

App-server, SDK

Term

Turn

Definition

One exchange in a thread, usually a user prompt plus Codex's response and actions.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

Term

Universal image

Definition

Default Codex cloud container image with common tools preinstalled.

Applies to

Cloud

Term

Web search cache

Definition

Pre-indexed search results Codex can use without live browsing.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Term

Worktree

Definition

Mode where Codex isolates changes in a separate Git worktree.

Applies to

App

Term

Writable roots

Definition

Directories Codex is allowed to modify.

Applies to

App, CLI, IDE extension

Expand to view all

glossary.md +1491 −0 created

1# Glossary – Codex

3Use this glossary as a quick reference for Codex terms across the app, CLI, IDE extension, cloud, SDK, and related integrations.

5| Term | Definition | Applies to |

6| --- | --- | --- |

7| [Agent](/codex) | The Codex worker that reasons over context, uses tools, and completes a task. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud |

8| [AGENTS.md](https://developers.openai.com/codex/guides/agents-md) | Repository or user guidance file that gives Codex persistent instructions. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud |

9| [Analytics dashboard](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/governance#analytics-dashboard) | Admin view for Codex usage, adoption, and code review metrics. | Enterprise |

10| [API key sign-in](https://developers.openai.com/codex/auth#sign-in-with-an-api-key) | Authentication using an OpenAI API key. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

11| [Approval policy](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#sandbox-and-approvals) | Rules for when Codex must ask before taking an action. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

12| [Approval request](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#automatic-approval-reviews) | Codex asking to allow a restricted action. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

13| [Apps (connectors)](https://developers.openai.com/codex/plugins) | Integration that lets Codex access external services. Available through plugins; also called connectors. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

14| [Appshot](https://developers.openai.com/codex/appshots) | Snapshot of the frontmost app window sent to a Codex thread. | App |

15| [Auth cache](https://developers.openai.com/codex/auth#login-caching) | Locally stored login credentials reused by Codex. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

16| [Automatic approval review](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#automatic-approval-reviews) | Model-based review of eligible approval requests before they proceed. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

17| [Automation](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations) | A scheduled or recurring Codex task. | App |

18| [Automation run](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#managing-tasks) | One execution of a scheduled automation that may report findings or archive itself. | App |

19| [Browser use](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/browser#browser-use) | App capability that lets Codex operate the in-app browser directly. | App |

20| [Chat](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/features#chats) | A Codex conversation not tied to a project. | App |

21| [ChatGPT sign-in](https://developers.openai.com/codex/auth#sign-in-with-chatgpt) | Authentication using a ChatGPT account and workspace permissions. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud |

22| [Chronicle](https://developers.openai.com/codex/memories/chronicle) | Opt-in feature that builds memories from recent screen context. | App |

23| [Cloud](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud) | Mode where Codex works remotely in an OpenAI-managed environment. | App, IDE extension, Web |

24| [Cloud environment](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments) | Configured container setup used for Codex cloud tasks. | Cloud |

25| [Cloud task](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#how-codex-cloud-tasks-run) | A remotely executed Codex task that runs in a cloud environment. | Cloud |

26| [Cloud thread](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#threads) | A thread that runs in a Codex cloud environment. | Cloud |

27| [Codex](/codex) | OpenAI's coding agent for software development tasks. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Web, Cloud, SDK |

28| [Codex app](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app) | Desktop app for running Codex threads in parallel, with built-in worktree support, automations, and Git functionality. | Desktop |

29| [Codex app-server](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app-server) | Local JSON-RPC server for embedding Codex threads, turns, approvals, history, and streamed events in custom clients. | App, IDE extension, SDK |

30| [Codex CLI](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cli) | Terminal client for running Codex interactively or in scripts. | Terminal |

31| [Codex cloud](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud) | OpenAI-managed execution environment where Codex can work on repository tasks remotely. | Web, App, IDE extension |

32| [codex exec](https://developers.openai.com/codex/noninteractive) | CLI command for running Codex non-interactively from scripts or CI. | CLI |

33| [Codex IDE extension](https://developers.openai.com/codex/ide) | Editor integration for using Codex inside IDEs like VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, Cursor, and Windsurf. | IDE |

34| [Codex SDK](https://developers.openai.com/codex/sdk) | Programmatic interface for building Codex-powered workflows or integrations. | SDK |

35| [Codex web](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud) | Browser-based Codex surface for delegating cloud tasks. | Browser |

36| [Codex-managed worktree](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#codex-managed-and-permanent-worktrees) | A temporary worktree Codex creates and manages for a thread. | App |

37| [Compaction](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#context) | Summarizing older context so long-running work can continue. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud |

38| [Compliance API](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/governance#compliance-api) | API for exporting Codex activity and audit metadata. | Enterprise |

39| [Computer use](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/computer-use) | App capability that lets Codex interact with desktop applications through the UI. | App |

40| [config.toml](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-reference#configtoml) | Local Codex configuration files. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

41| [Connected host](https://developers.openai.com/codex/remote-connections#what-comes-from-the-connected-host) | Computer or development environment that provides files, tools, and shell access for remote Codex work. | App, Mobile |

42| [Connector](https://developers.openai.com/codex/plugins) | App integration that lets Codex access external services. Available through plugins; also called apps. | App, Cloud |

43| [Container cache](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#container-caching) | Saved cloud container state reused to speed up future tasks. | Cloud |

44| [Context](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#context) | Information Codex can use while working, such as files, prior messages, tool output, and instructions. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK |

45| [Context window](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/guides/conversation-state#managing-the-context-window) | The maximum amount of information the model can consider at once. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK |

46| [Custom agent](https://developers.openai.com/codex/subagents#custom-agents) | User-defined agent role with its own instructions and settings. | App, CLI |

47| [Deny-read rule](https://developers.openai.com/codex/permissions#deny-reads-with-exact-paths-or-globs) | Filesystem permission rule that prevents Codex from reading sensitive paths or glob matches. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Enterprise |

48| [Diff](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review#what-changes-it-shows) | Set of Git file changes shown for inspection, comments, staging, or reverting. | App, Git, Review |

49| [Domain allowlist](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/internet-access#domain-allowlist) | Set of domains Codex cloud can reach when agent internet access is enabled. | Cloud |

50| [Environment (local)](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/local-environments) | App configuration to tell Codex how to set up worktrees for a project. | App, Worktree |

51| [Environment variable](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#environment-variables-and-secrets) | Runtime configuration value available during task execution. | Cloud, CLI, IDE extension |

52| [Ephemeral session](https://developers.openai.com/codex/noninteractive#basic-usage) | Non-interactive run that skips saving session state after it completes. | CLI |

53| [Fast mode](https://developers.openai.com/codex/speed#fast-mode) | Speed setting that makes supported models respond faster at a higher credit cost. | CLI, IDE extension |

54| [Filesystem permission](https://developers.openai.com/codex/permissions#filesystem-permissions) | Permission profile rule that grants or denies read and write access to paths. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

55| [Finding](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#managing-tasks) | A notable result or issue surfaced by an automation. | App |

56| [Full access](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/sandboxing#configure-defaults) | Mode where Codex runs without normal sandbox restrictions. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

57| [Git worktree](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#whats-a-worktree) | A second checkout of the same repository for parallel branch work. | App, Git |

58| [Handoff](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#working-between-local-and-worktree) | Moving a thread and its work between Local and Worktree. | App |

59| [Heartbeat](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#thread-automations) | A recurring thread wake-up that returns Codex to the same conversation on a schedule. Also called a thread automation. | App |

60| [Hook](https://developers.openai.com/codex/hooks) | A lifecycle handler that runs when a Codex event matches, such as tool use, permission requests, or when a turn stops. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

61| [Hook event](https://developers.openai.com/codex/hooks#config-shape) | Lifecycle point where configured hook handlers can run. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

62| [Hunk](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review#staging-and-reverting-files) | Contiguous section of a diff that can be staged, unstaged, or reverted independently. | App, Git, Review |

63| [Inline comment](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review#inline-comments-for-feedback) | Line-specific feedback attached to a diff. | App |

64| [Live web search](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-basic#web-search-mode) | Real-time web lookup for current information. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

65| [Local](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#working-between-local-and-worktree) | Mode where Codex works on the user's computer. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

66| [Local thread](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#threads) | A thread that runs on the user's machine. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

67| [Maintenance script](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#container-caching) | Optional script run when a cached cloud container resumes. | Cloud |

68| [Managed configuration](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/managed-configuration) | Organization-controlled Codex defaults and restrictions. | Enterprise |

69| [MCP](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp) | Model Context Protocol, a standard for connecting Codex to external tools and context. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

70| [MCP resource](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#supported-mcp-features) | Readable context exposed by an MCP server for Codex to inspect. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

71| [MCP server](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#supported-mcp-features) | External tool or context provider exposed through MCP. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

72| [MCP tool](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#supported-mcp-features) | Action exposed by an MCP server that Codex can call during a task. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

73| [MDM](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/managed-configuration#macos-managed-preferences-mdm) | Mobile device management tooling for distributing device profiles and managed Codex settings. | Enterprise |

74| [Memories](https://developers.openai.com/codex/memories) | Locally stored context Codex can reuse across sessions. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

75| [Model](https://developers.openai.com/codex/models) | The AI model Codex uses for reasoning and tool work. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK |

76| [Network access](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#network-access-) | Permission for commands or environments to reach the internet. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud |

77| [Network policy](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#network-policy) | Domain-based allow and deny rules that constrain sandboxed outbound network traffic. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

78| [Non-interactive mode](https://developers.openai.com/codex/noninteractive) | CLI mode for running Codex from scripts or CI. | CLI |

79| [Output schema](https://developers.openai.com/codex/noninteractive#create-structured-outputs-with-a-schema) | JSON Schema passed to `codex exec` to constrain the final response. | CLI |

80| [Permanent worktree](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#codex-managed-and-permanent-worktrees) | A long-lived worktree kept as its own project. | App |

81| [Permission profile](https://developers.openai.com/codex/permissions#define-and-select-a-profile) | Named least-privilege policy that combines filesystem and network rules for local command execution. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

82| [Plan](https://developers.openai.com/codex/learn/best-practices#plan-first-for-difficult-tasks) | Codex's proposed or tracked steps for completing a task. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud |

83| [Plugin](https://developers.openai.com/codex/plugins) | Installable bundle that can distribute skills, tools, and integrations. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

84| [Plugin manifest](https://developers.openai.com/codex/plugins/build#plugin-structure) | Plugin metadata file that identifies a plugin and points to bundled skills, apps, MCP servers, hooks, and metadata. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Plugins |

85| [Prefix rule](https://developers.openai.com/codex/rules#understand-the-rules-language) | Command-rule pattern that allows, prompts for, or forbids matching command prefixes. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Enterprise |

86| [Profile](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-advanced#profiles) | Named configuration preset for Codex. | CLI, IDE extension |

87| [Progressive disclosure](https://developers.openai.com/codex/skills) | Loading skill details only when needed to preserve context. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

88| [Project](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/features#multitask-across-projects) | A selected codebase or folder Codex works in. | App |

89| [Prompt](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting) | The user instruction or request sent to Codex. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK |

90| [Pull request review](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review#pull-request-reviews) | Codex review of changes or feedback on a pull request. | App, CLI, GitHub |

91| [RBAC](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/admin-setup#step-2-set-up-custom-roles-rbac) | Role-based access control for workspace permissions. | Enterprise |

92| [Read-only mode](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/sandboxing) | Mode where Codex can inspect but not modify without approval. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

93| [Reasoning effort](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-basic#reasoning-effort) | Setting that controls how much reasoning budget a model uses. | App, CLI, IDE extension, SDK |

94| [Remote connection](https://developers.openai.com/codex/remote-connections) | Connection that lets Codex work from another device using a connected host. | App, Mobile |

95| [requirements.toml](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-reference#requirementstoml) | Admin-enforced requirements file for managed Codex setups. | Enterprise |

96| [Review pane](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review) | App view for inspecting diffs, comments, and Git changes. | App |

97| [Rules](https://developers.openai.com/codex/rules) | Policies that allow, prompt for, or deny command prefixes or permission exceptions. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

98| [Sandbox](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/sandboxing) | Enforced boundary limiting what Codex commands can access or modify. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

99| [Sandbox mode](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-basic#sandbox-level) | Configuration that defines Codex's filesystem and network limits. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

100| [Sandbox preset](https://developers.openai.com/codex/sdk#sandbox-presets) | SDK shorthand for common sandbox policies such as read-only, workspace-write, or full access. | SDK |

101| [Schedule](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations) | The timing rule for an automation. | App |

102| [Secret](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#environment-variables-and-secrets) | Encrypted value available to setup scripts but removed before the agent phase. | Cloud |

103| [Setup script](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/local-environments#setup-scripts) | Script run before the agent starts to install dependencies or prepare tools. | App worktrees |

104| [Skill](https://developers.openai.com/codex/skills) | Reusable workflow package with instructions and optional scripts or references. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

105| [Skill invocation](https://developers.openai.com/codex/skills#how-codex-uses-skills) | Explicit or implicit activation of a skill. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

106| [Slash command](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cli/slash-commands) | Command entered with a leading slash to control or inspect a Codex CLI session. | CLI |

107| [Standalone automation](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations) | Independent scheduled run that reports separate findings. | App |

108| [STDIO MCP server](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#stdio-servers) | MCP server launched as a local process by a configured command and arguments. | CLI, IDE extension |

109| [Streamable HTTP MCP server](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#streamable-http-servers) | MCP server reached over HTTP, optionally with bearer token or OAuth authentication. | CLI, IDE extension |

110| [Subagent](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/subagents) | Specialized child agent spawned to work on part of a task. | App, CLI |

111| [Subagent workflow](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/subagents#core-terms) | Workflow where Codex runs delegated agents in parallel and combines their results. | App, CLI |

112| [Task](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#managing-tasks) | The unit of work Codex is asked to complete. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK |

113| [Thread](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#threads) | A single Codex session containing prompts, model output, and tool activity. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK |

114| [Thread automation](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#thread-automations) | Recurring wake-up attached to an existing thread. Also called a heartbeat. | App |

115| [Thread fork](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app-server#start-or-resume-a-thread) | New thread branched from the stored history of an existing thread. | App-server, SDK |

116| [Turn](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app-server#core-primitives) | One exchange in a thread, usually a user prompt plus Codex's response and actions. | App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK |

117| [Universal image](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#default-universal-image) | Default Codex cloud container image with common tools preinstalled. | Cloud |

118| [Web search cache](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-basic#web-search-mode) | Pre-indexed search results Codex can use without live browsing. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

119| [Worktree](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees) | Mode where Codex isolates changes in a separate Git worktree. | App |

120| [Writable roots](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#protected-paths-in-writable-roots) | Directories Codex is allowed to modify. | App, CLI, IDE extension |

121

122Term

123

124[Agent](/codex)

125

126Definition

127

128The Codex worker that reasons over context, uses tools, and completes a task.

129

130Applies to

131

132App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

133

134Term

135

136[AGENTS.md](https://developers.openai.com/codex/guides/agents-md)

137

138Definition

139

140Repository or user guidance file that gives Codex persistent instructions.

141

142Applies to

143

144App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

145

146Term

147

148[Analytics dashboard](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/governance#analytics-dashboard)

149

150Definition

151

152Admin view for Codex usage, adoption, and code review metrics.

153

154Applies to

155

156Enterprise

157

158Term

159

160[API key sign-in](https://developers.openai.com/codex/auth#sign-in-with-an-api-key)

161

162Definition

163

164Authentication using an OpenAI API key.

165

166Applies to

167

168App, CLI, IDE extension

169

170Term

171

172[Approval policy](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#sandbox-and-approvals)

173

174Definition

175

176Rules for when Codex must ask before taking an action.

177

178Applies to

179

180App, CLI, IDE extension

181

182Term

183

184[Approval request](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#automatic-approval-reviews)

185

186Definition

187

188Codex asking to allow a restricted action.

189

190Applies to

191

192App, CLI, IDE extension

193

194Term

195

196[Apps (connectors)](https://developers.openai.com/codex/plugins)

197

198Definition

199

200Integration that lets Codex access external services. Available through plugins; also called connectors.

201

202Applies to

203

204App, CLI, IDE extension

205

206Term

207

208[Appshot](https://developers.openai.com/codex/appshots)

209

210Definition

211

212Snapshot of the frontmost app window sent to a Codex thread.

213

214Applies to

215

216App

217

218Term

219

220[Auth cache](https://developers.openai.com/codex/auth#login-caching)

221

222Definition

223

224Locally stored login credentials reused by Codex.

225

226Applies to

227

228App, CLI, IDE extension

229

230Term

231

232[Automatic approval review](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#automatic-approval-reviews)

233

234Definition

235

236Model-based review of eligible approval requests before they proceed.

237

238Applies to

239

240App, CLI, IDE extension

241

242Term

243

244[Automation](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations)

245

246Definition

247

248A scheduled or recurring Codex task.

249

250Applies to

251

252App

253

254Term

255

256[Automation run](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#managing-tasks)

257

258Definition

259

260One execution of a scheduled automation that may report findings or archive itself.

261

262Applies to

263

264App

265

266Term

267

268[Browser use](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/browser#browser-use)

269

270Definition

271

272App capability that lets Codex operate the in-app browser directly.

273

274Applies to

275

276App

277

278Term

279

280[Chat](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/features#chats)

281

282Definition

283

284A Codex conversation not tied to a project.

285

286Applies to

287

288App

289

290Term

291

292[ChatGPT sign-in](https://developers.openai.com/codex/auth#sign-in-with-chatgpt)

293

294Definition

295

296Authentication using a ChatGPT account and workspace permissions.

297

298Applies to

299

300App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

301

302Term

303

304[Chronicle](https://developers.openai.com/codex/memories/chronicle)

305

306Definition

307

308Opt-in feature that builds memories from recent screen context.

309

310Applies to

311

312App

313

314Term

315

316[Cloud](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud)

317

318Definition

319

320Mode where Codex works remotely in an OpenAI-managed environment.

321

322Applies to

323

324App, IDE extension, Web

325

326Term

327

328[Cloud environment](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments)

329

330Definition

331

332Configured container setup used for Codex cloud tasks.

333

334Applies to

335

336Cloud

337

338Term

339

340[Cloud task](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#how-codex-cloud-tasks-run)

341

342Definition

343

344A remotely executed Codex task that runs in a cloud environment.

345

346Applies to

347

348Cloud

349

350Term

351

352[Cloud thread](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#threads)

353

354Definition

355

356A thread that runs in a Codex cloud environment.

357

358Applies to

359

360Cloud

361

362Term

363

364[Codex](/codex)

365

366Definition

367

368OpenAI's coding agent for software development tasks.

369

370Applies to

371

372App, CLI, IDE extension, Web, Cloud, SDK

373

374Term

375

376[Codex app](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app)

377

378Definition

379

380Desktop app for running Codex threads in parallel, with built-in worktree support, automations, and Git functionality.

381

382Applies to

383

384Desktop

385

386Term

387

388[Codex app-server](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app-server)

389

390Definition

391

392Local JSON-RPC server for embedding Codex threads, turns, approvals, history, and streamed events in custom clients.

393

394Applies to

395

396App, IDE extension, SDK

397

398Term

399

400[Codex CLI](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cli)

401

402Definition

403

404Terminal client for running Codex interactively or in scripts.

405

406Applies to

407

408Terminal

409

410Term

411

412[Codex cloud](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud)

413

414Definition

415

416OpenAI-managed execution environment where Codex can work on repository tasks remotely.

417

418Applies to

419

420Web, App, IDE extension

421

422Term

423

424[codex exec](https://developers.openai.com/codex/noninteractive)

425

426Definition

427

428CLI command for running Codex non-interactively from scripts or CI.

429

430Applies to

431

432CLI

433

434Term

435

436[Codex IDE extension](https://developers.openai.com/codex/ide)

437

438Definition

439

440Editor integration for using Codex inside IDEs like VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, Cursor, and Windsurf.

441

442Applies to

443

444IDE

445

446Term

447

448[Codex SDK](https://developers.openai.com/codex/sdk)

449

450Definition

451

452Programmatic interface for building Codex-powered workflows or integrations.

453

454Applies to

455

456SDK

457

458Term

459

460[Codex web](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud)

461

462Definition

463

464Browser-based Codex surface for delegating cloud tasks.

465

466Applies to

467

468Browser

469

470Term

471

472[Codex-managed worktree](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#codex-managed-and-permanent-worktrees)

473

474Definition

475

476A temporary worktree Codex creates and manages for a thread.

477

478Applies to

479

480App

481

482Term

483

484[Compaction](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#context)

485

486Definition

487

488Summarizing older context so long-running work can continue.

489

490Applies to

491

492App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

493

494Term

495

496[Compliance API](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/governance#compliance-api)

497

498Definition

499

500API for exporting Codex activity and audit metadata.

501

502Applies to

503

504Enterprise

505

506Term

507

508[Computer use](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/computer-use)

509

510Definition

511

512App capability that lets Codex interact with desktop applications through the UI.

513

514Applies to

515

516App

517

518Term

519

520[config.toml](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-reference#configtoml)

521

522Definition

523

524Local Codex configuration files.

525

526Applies to

527

528App, CLI, IDE extension

529

530Term

531

532[Connected host](https://developers.openai.com/codex/remote-connections#what-comes-from-the-connected-host)

533

534Definition

535

536Computer or development environment that provides files, tools, and shell access for remote Codex work.

537

538Applies to

539

540App, Mobile

541

542Term

543

544[Connector](https://developers.openai.com/codex/plugins)

545

546Definition

547

548App integration that lets Codex access external services. Available through plugins; also called apps.

549

550Applies to

551

552App, Cloud

553

554Term

555

556[Container cache](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#container-caching)

557

558Definition

559

560Saved cloud container state reused to speed up future tasks.

561

562Applies to

563

564Cloud

565

566Term

567

568[Context](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#context)

569

570Definition

571

572Information Codex can use while working, such as files, prior messages, tool output, and instructions.

573

574Applies to

575

576App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

577

578Term

579

580[Context window](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/guides/conversation-state#managing-the-context-window)

581

582Definition

583

584The maximum amount of information the model can consider at once.

585

586Applies to

587

588App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

589

590Term

591

592[Custom agent](https://developers.openai.com/codex/subagents#custom-agents)

593

594Definition

595

596User-defined agent role with its own instructions and settings.

597

598Applies to

599

600App, CLI

601

602Term

603

604[Deny-read rule](https://developers.openai.com/codex/permissions#deny-reads-with-exact-paths-or-globs)

605

606Definition

607

608Filesystem permission rule that prevents Codex from reading sensitive paths or glob matches.

609

610Applies to

611

612App, CLI, IDE extension, Enterprise

613

614Term

615

616[Diff](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review#what-changes-it-shows)

617

618Definition

619

620Set of Git file changes shown for inspection, comments, staging, or reverting.

621

622Applies to

623

624App, Git, Review

625

626Term

627

628[Domain allowlist](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/internet-access#domain-allowlist)

629

630Definition

631

632Set of domains Codex cloud can reach when agent internet access is enabled.

633

634Applies to

635

636Cloud

637

638Term

639

640[Environment (local)](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/local-environments)

641

642Definition

643

644App configuration to tell Codex how to set up worktrees for a project.

645

646Applies to

647

648App, Worktree

649

650Term

651

652[Environment variable](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#environment-variables-and-secrets)

653

654Definition

655

656Runtime configuration value available during task execution.

657

658Applies to

659

660Cloud, CLI, IDE extension

661

662Term

663

664[Ephemeral session](https://developers.openai.com/codex/noninteractive#basic-usage)

665

666Definition

667

668Non-interactive run that skips saving session state after it completes.

669

670Applies to

671

672CLI

673

674Term

675

676[Fast mode](https://developers.openai.com/codex/speed#fast-mode)

677

678Definition

679

680Speed setting that makes supported models respond faster at a higher credit cost.

681

682Applies to

683

684CLI, IDE extension

685

686Term

687

688[Filesystem permission](https://developers.openai.com/codex/permissions#filesystem-permissions)

689

690Definition

691

692Permission profile rule that grants or denies read and write access to paths.

693

694Applies to

695

696App, CLI, IDE extension

697

698Term

699

700[Finding](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#managing-tasks)

701

702Definition

703

704A notable result or issue surfaced by an automation.

705

706Applies to

707

708App

709

710Term

711

712[Full access](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/sandboxing#configure-defaults)

713

714Definition

715

716Mode where Codex runs without normal sandbox restrictions.

717

718Applies to

719

720App, CLI, IDE extension

721

722Term

723

724[Git worktree](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#whats-a-worktree)

725

726Definition

727

728A second checkout of the same repository for parallel branch work.

729

730Applies to

731

732App, Git

733

734Term

735

736[Handoff](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#working-between-local-and-worktree)

737

738Definition

739

740Moving a thread and its work between Local and Worktree.

741

742Applies to

743

744App

745

746Term

747

748[Heartbeat](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#thread-automations)

749

750Definition

751

752A recurring thread wake-up that returns Codex to the same conversation on a schedule. Also called a thread automation.

753

754Applies to

755

756App

757

758Term

759

760[Hook](https://developers.openai.com/codex/hooks)

761

762Definition

763

764A lifecycle handler that runs when a Codex event matches, such as tool use, permission requests, or when a turn stops.

765

766Applies to

767

768App, CLI, IDE extension

769

770Term

771

772[Hook event](https://developers.openai.com/codex/hooks#config-shape)

773

774Definition

775

776Lifecycle point where configured hook handlers can run.

777

778Applies to

779

780App, CLI, IDE extension

781

782Term

783

784[Hunk](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review#staging-and-reverting-files)

785

786Definition

787

788Contiguous section of a diff that can be staged, unstaged, or reverted independently.

789

790Applies to

791

792App, Git, Review

793

794Term

795

796[Inline comment](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review#inline-comments-for-feedback)

797

798Definition

799

800Line-specific feedback attached to a diff.

801

802Applies to

803

804App

805

806Term

807

808[Live web search](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-basic#web-search-mode)

809

810Definition

811

812Real-time web lookup for current information.

813

814Applies to

815

816App, CLI, IDE extension

817

818Term

819

820[Local](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#working-between-local-and-worktree)

821

822Definition

823

824Mode where Codex works on the user's computer.

825

826Applies to

827

828App, CLI, IDE extension

829

830Term

831

832[Local thread](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#threads)

833

834Definition

835

836A thread that runs on the user's machine.

837

838Applies to

839

840App, CLI, IDE extension

841

842Term

843

844[Maintenance script](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#container-caching)

845

846Definition

847

848Optional script run when a cached cloud container resumes.

849

850Applies to

851

852Cloud

853

854Term

855

856[Managed configuration](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/managed-configuration)

857

858Definition

859

860Organization-controlled Codex defaults and restrictions.

861

862Applies to

863

864Enterprise

865

866Term

867

868[MCP](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp)

869

870Definition

871

872Model Context Protocol, a standard for connecting Codex to external tools and context.

873

874Applies to

875

876App, CLI, IDE extension

877

878Term

879

880[MCP resource](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#supported-mcp-features)

881

882Definition

883

884Readable context exposed by an MCP server for Codex to inspect.

885

886Applies to

887

888App, CLI, IDE extension

889

890Term

891

892[MCP server](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#supported-mcp-features)

893

894Definition

895

896External tool or context provider exposed through MCP.

897

898Applies to

899

900App, CLI, IDE extension

901

902Term

903

904[MCP tool](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#supported-mcp-features)

905

906Definition

907

908Action exposed by an MCP server that Codex can call during a task.

909

910Applies to

911

912App, CLI, IDE extension

913

914Term

915

916[MDM](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/managed-configuration#macos-managed-preferences-mdm)

917

918Definition

919

920Mobile device management tooling for distributing device profiles and managed Codex settings.

921

922Applies to

923

924Enterprise

925

926Term

927

928[Memories](https://developers.openai.com/codex/memories)

929

930Definition

931

932Locally stored context Codex can reuse across sessions.

933

934Applies to

935

936App, CLI, IDE extension

937

938Term

939

940[Model](https://developers.openai.com/codex/models)

941

942Definition

943

944The AI model Codex uses for reasoning and tool work.

945

946Applies to

947

948App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

949

950Term

951

952[Network access](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#network-access-)

953

954Definition

955

956Permission for commands or environments to reach the internet.

957

958Applies to

959

960App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

961

962Term

963

964[Network policy](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#network-policy)

965

966Definition

967

968Domain-based allow and deny rules that constrain sandboxed outbound network traffic.

969

970Applies to

971

972App, CLI, IDE extension

973

974Term

975

976[Non-interactive mode](https://developers.openai.com/codex/noninteractive)

977

978Definition

979

980CLI mode for running Codex from scripts or CI.

981

982Applies to

983

984CLI

985

986Term

987

988[Output schema](https://developers.openai.com/codex/noninteractive#create-structured-outputs-with-a-schema)

989

990Definition

991

992JSON Schema passed to `codex exec` to constrain the final response.

993

994Applies to

995

996CLI

997

998Term

999

1000[Permanent worktree](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees#codex-managed-and-permanent-worktrees)

1001

1002Definition

1003

1004A long-lived worktree kept as its own project.

1005

1006Applies to

1007

1008App

1009

1010Term

1011

1012[Permission profile](https://developers.openai.com/codex/permissions#define-and-select-a-profile)

1013

1014Definition

1015

1016Named least-privilege policy that combines filesystem and network rules for local command execution.

1017

1018Applies to

1019

1020App, CLI, IDE extension

1021

1022Term

1023

1024[Plan](https://developers.openai.com/codex/learn/best-practices#plan-first-for-difficult-tasks)

1025

1026Definition

1027

1028Codex's proposed or tracked steps for completing a task.

1029

1030Applies to

1031

1032App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud

1033

1034Term

1035

1036[Plugin](https://developers.openai.com/codex/plugins)

1037

1038Definition

1039

1040Installable bundle that can distribute skills, tools, and integrations.

1041

1042Applies to

1043

1044App, CLI, IDE extension

1045

1046Term

1047

1048[Plugin manifest](https://developers.openai.com/codex/plugins/build#plugin-structure)

1049

1050Definition

1051

1052Plugin metadata file that identifies a plugin and points to bundled skills, apps, MCP servers, hooks, and metadata.

1053

1054Applies to

1055

1056App, CLI, IDE extension, Plugins

1057

1058Term

1059

1060[Prefix rule](https://developers.openai.com/codex/rules#understand-the-rules-language)

1061

1062Definition

1063

1064Command-rule pattern that allows, prompts for, or forbids matching command prefixes.

1065

1066Applies to

1067

1068App, CLI, IDE extension, Enterprise

1069

1070Term

1071

1072[Profile](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-advanced#profiles)

1073

1074Definition

1075

1076Named configuration preset for Codex.

1077

1078Applies to

1079

1080CLI, IDE extension

1081

1082Term

1083

1084[Progressive disclosure](https://developers.openai.com/codex/skills)

1085

1086Definition

1087

1088Loading skill details only when needed to preserve context.

1089

1090Applies to

1091

1092App, CLI, IDE extension

1093

1094Term

1095

1096[Project](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/features#multitask-across-projects)

1097

1098Definition

1099

1100A selected codebase or folder Codex works in.

1101

1102Applies to

1103

1104App

1105

1106Term

1107

1108[Prompt](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting)

1109

1110Definition

1111

1112The user instruction or request sent to Codex.

1113

1114Applies to

1115

1116App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

1117

1118Term

1119

1120[Pull request review](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review#pull-request-reviews)

1121

1122Definition

1123

1124Codex review of changes or feedback on a pull request.

1125

1126Applies to

1127

1128App, CLI, GitHub

1129

1130Term

1131

1132[RBAC](https://developers.openai.com/codex/enterprise/admin-setup#step-2-set-up-custom-roles-rbac)

1133

1134Definition

1135

1136Role-based access control for workspace permissions.

1137

1138Applies to

1139

1140Enterprise

1141

1142Term

1143

1144[Read-only mode](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/sandboxing)

1145

1146Definition

1147

1148Mode where Codex can inspect but not modify without approval.

1149

1150Applies to

1151

1152App, CLI, IDE extension

1153

1154Term

1155

1156[Reasoning effort](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-basic#reasoning-effort)

1157

1158Definition

1159

1160Setting that controls how much reasoning budget a model uses.

1161

1162Applies to

1163

1164App, CLI, IDE extension, SDK

1165

1166Term

1167

1168[Remote connection](https://developers.openai.com/codex/remote-connections)

1169

1170Definition

1171

1172Connection that lets Codex work from another device using a connected host.

1173

1174Applies to

1175

1176App, Mobile

1177

1178Term

1179

1180[requirements.toml](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-reference#requirementstoml)

1181

1182Definition

1183

1184Admin-enforced requirements file for managed Codex setups.

1185

1186Applies to

1187

1188Enterprise

1189

1190Term

1191

1192[Review pane](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/review)

1193

1194Definition

1195

1196App view for inspecting diffs, comments, and Git changes.

1197

1198Applies to

1199

1200App

1201

1202Term

1203

1204[Rules](https://developers.openai.com/codex/rules)

1205

1206Definition

1207

1208Policies that allow, prompt for, or deny command prefixes or permission exceptions.

1209

1210Applies to

1211

1212App, CLI, IDE extension

1213

1214Term

1215

1216[Sandbox](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/sandboxing)

1217

1218Definition

1219

1220Enforced boundary limiting what Codex commands can access or modify.

1221

1222Applies to

1223

1224App, CLI, IDE extension

1225

1226Term

1227

1228[Sandbox mode](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-basic#sandbox-level)

1229

1230Definition

1231

1232Configuration that defines Codex's filesystem and network limits.

1233

1234Applies to

1235

1236App, CLI, IDE extension

1237

1238Term

1239

1240[Sandbox preset](https://developers.openai.com/codex/sdk#sandbox-presets)

1241

1242Definition

1243

1244SDK shorthand for common sandbox policies such as read-only, workspace-write, or full access.

1245

1246Applies to

1247

1248SDK

1249

1250Term

1251

1252[Schedule](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations)

1253

1254Definition

1255

1256The timing rule for an automation.

1257

1258Applies to

1259

1260App

1261

1262Term

1263

1264[Secret](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#environment-variables-and-secrets)

1265

1266Definition

1267

1268Encrypted value available to setup scripts but removed before the agent phase.

1269

1270Applies to

1271

1272Cloud

1273

1274Term

1275

1276[Setup script](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/local-environments#setup-scripts)

1277

1278Definition

1279

1280Script run before the agent starts to install dependencies or prepare tools.

1281

1282Applies to

1283

1284App worktrees

1285

1286Term

1287

1288[Skill](https://developers.openai.com/codex/skills)

1289

1290Definition

1291

1292Reusable workflow package with instructions and optional scripts or references.

1293

1294Applies to

1295

1296App, CLI, IDE extension

1297

1298Term

1299

1300[Skill invocation](https://developers.openai.com/codex/skills#how-codex-uses-skills)

1301

1302Definition

1303

1304Explicit or implicit activation of a skill.

1305

1306Applies to

1307

1308App, CLI, IDE extension

1309

1310Term

1311

1312[Slash command](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cli/slash-commands)

1313

1314Definition

1315

1316Command entered with a leading slash to control or inspect a Codex CLI session.

1317

1318Applies to

1319

1320CLI

1321

1322Term

1323

1324[Standalone automation](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations)

1325

1326Definition

1327

1328Independent scheduled run that reports separate findings.

1329

1330Applies to

1331

1332App

1333

1334Term

1335

1336[STDIO MCP server](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#stdio-servers)

1337

1338Definition

1339

1340MCP server launched as a local process by a configured command and arguments.

1341

1342Applies to

1343

1344CLI, IDE extension

1345

1346Term

1347

1348[Streamable HTTP MCP server](https://developers.openai.com/codex/mcp#streamable-http-servers)

1349

1350Definition

1351

1352MCP server reached over HTTP, optionally with bearer token or OAuth authentication.

1353

1354Applies to

1355

1356CLI, IDE extension

1357

1358Term

1359

1360[Subagent](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/subagents)

1361

1362Definition

1363

1364Specialized child agent spawned to work on part of a task.

1365

1366Applies to

1367

1368App, CLI

1369

1370Term

1371

1372[Subagent workflow](https://developers.openai.com/codex/concepts/subagents#core-terms)

1373

1374Definition

1375

1376Workflow where Codex runs delegated agents in parallel and combines their results.

1377

1378Applies to

1379

1380App, CLI

1381

1382Term

1383

1384[Task](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#managing-tasks)

1385

1386Definition

1387

1388The unit of work Codex is asked to complete.

1389

1390Applies to

1391

1392App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

1393

1394Term

1395

1396[Thread](https://developers.openai.com/codex/prompting#threads)

1397

1398Definition

1399

1400A single Codex session containing prompts, model output, and tool activity.

1401

1402Applies to

1403

1404App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

1405

1406Term

1407

1408[Thread automation](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/automations#thread-automations)

1409

1410Definition

1411

1412Recurring wake-up attached to an existing thread. Also called a heartbeat.

1413

1414Applies to

1415

1416App

1417

1418Term

1419

1420[Thread fork](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app-server#start-or-resume-a-thread)

1421

1422Definition

1423

1424New thread branched from the stored history of an existing thread.

1425

1426Applies to

1427

1428App-server, SDK

1429

1430Term

1431

1432[Turn](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app-server#core-primitives)

1433

1434Definition

1435

1436One exchange in a thread, usually a user prompt plus Codex's response and actions.

1437

1438Applies to

1439

1440App, CLI, IDE extension, Cloud, SDK

1441

1442Term

1443

1444[Universal image](https://developers.openai.com/codex/cloud/environments#default-universal-image)

1445

1446Definition

1447

1448Default Codex cloud container image with common tools preinstalled.

1449

1450Applies to

1451

1452Cloud

1453

1454Term

1455

1456[Web search cache](https://developers.openai.com/codex/config-basic#web-search-mode)

1457

1458Definition

1459

1460Pre-indexed search results Codex can use without live browsing.

1461

1462Applies to

1463

1464App, CLI, IDE extension

1465

1466Term

1467

1468[Worktree](https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/worktrees)

1469

1470Definition

1471

1472Mode where Codex isolates changes in a separate Git worktree.

1473

1474Applies to

1475

1476App

1477

1478Term

1479

1480[Writable roots](https://developers.openai.com/codex/agent-approvals-security#protected-paths-in-writable-roots)

1481

1482Definition

1483

1484Directories Codex is allowed to modify.

1485

1486Applies to

1487

1488App, CLI, IDE extension

1489

1490Expand to view all

1491

glossary.md 2026-06-04 01:09 UTC to 2026-06-05 18:45 UTC

Glossary – Codex