Generation-coded Core ID and repository protocol 2
Adds a two-letter generation code to newly generated
Web terminal for hosting
Run a compact PHP terminal on ordinary shared hosting, open it directly or call it over your site with ⌃+Shift+L / ⌘+Shift+L. Files, code, archives, databases and diagnostics stay in one keyboard-friendly workspace without SSH.
pwd/sandboxdir 1 . -Fconfig/
data/
public/
scripts/
src/find TODO -t -p srcsrc/index.php:18 TODO review validation
src/Router.php:74 TODO simplify fallbackcode src/index.phpFile src/index.php
Language php
Editor openeddoctorPHP runtime OK
filesystem OK
repository OK
Recent Core updates
All Core versions →Per-build Core identity
Assigns each maintained PHP 8 build a cryptographically random
Language synchronization
Finalizes Local and Server Help synchronization and localization safety for lil-
A complete hosting toolkit without a heavyweight control panel
lil-terminal brings filesystem work, code editing, archives, databases, network diagnostics and automation into one compact tool. Keep the core small and install only the modules the current project actually needs.
Built for hosting where the usual developer tools are missing
Use it on inexpensive shared hosting, older projects and routine maintenance tasks where SSH, Composer or Node.js are unavailable.
Explicit actions and visible limits
Operations that change data require documented flags, paths are validated, writes are atomic where practical, and missing PHP capabilities are reported plainly instead of being hidden behind fake success.
Understand the workflow before you install it
The documentation follows one connected /sandbox/ project with copyable commands, realistic test files and prepared terminal output. You can understand each feature in context before using it on a real site.
Introduction
Open part →Practical introduction to the terminal
A hands-on course from the first command through files, editors, structured data, search, archives, networks, databases, hosting diagnostics, security and automation. Try a command, read the result, change one thing and verify what changed.
One everyday workflow for five database drivers
The
When the compact surface is no longer enough, everything after : is handed to the selected driver as its native query or command. The short workflow helps you start; SQL, Redis commands and MongoDB command documents remain available when you need the full language of the engine.
Read the database documentation →install db sqlite
db sqlite
db -c \sandbox\db\shop.sqlite
db -t
db -n products 5
db : SELECT COUNT(*) AS products FROM products⌃+Shift+L⌘+Shift+L
The terminal lives inside your site
Choose web integration in the download builder. A lightweight floating window opens above any page, remembers its geometry and can restore a cross-page transcript when History logging is enabled.
Web integration guide →Familiar to Linux and macOS users
Command history, completion, editor shortcuts, a movable window and concise output make the workflow familiar to terminal users without trying to imitate Bash.
↑↓Tab⌃R⌃S⌃C⌘CEsc
Try the code editor
Switch between real files from the public sandbox and edit the preview locally. Nothing is saved or executed.
Free for personal use. Licensed for commercial work.
Individuals may use core generation 1 without charge for personal, educational and other noncommercial projects. Organizations, agencies and paid client work require a commercial deployment license after the evaluation period.
Quick download
Start with a maintained preset, then add or remove modules from the terminal whenever you need them.
Quick builds use Base UI, authorization, this language and Latest. The package completes its first setup automatically; change the default admin password before normal use.
Features
Navigate, inspect, edit, copy, move, upload, download and archive project files without SSH.
Edit code, compare changes, replace text and work with JSON, INI, SQL and PHP.
Inspect HTTP, DNS, TCP, certificates, IP addresses and remote services from the hosting account.
Diagnose PHP, storage, databases, logs, sessions and the current server environment.
Requirements
A PHP hosting account and a modern browser are enough. lil-terminal does not require SSH, a system shell, Composer, Node.js or an external CDN.
One-file delivery10 interface languagesWorks without SSH
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers about installation, modules, web integration, security, troubleshooting and everyday work with lil-terminal.
Partners
lil-terminal gives developers a terminal in the browser when SSH is unavailable or inconvenient. We welcome partnerships with hosting providers, developers, educators and products that need integration.
Partner with lil-terminal →Support project
If lil-terminal saves you time, you can support the project with a voluntary contribution, practical help or a recommendation. Donations are separate from commercial licensing.
Support lil-terminal →