Connect

Start the Daemon

sidemesh up          # create config if needed, start, and show connection details

That is enough for pairing. Run sidemesh pair any time you want to reprint the QR code or token. If you want the app’s Restart and Update buttons to bring the host back on their own, install the background service on macOS or Linux:

# macOS
sidemesh service install
sidemesh service restart --yes

# Linux
sudo sidemesh service install
sudo sidemesh service restart --yes

The pair command prints:

• A QR code
• Base URLs (Tailscale, LAN, localhost)
• The shared bearer token

Add a Host in the App

QR Code (fastest)

1. Use the QR code printed by sidemesh up, or run sidemesh pair on the host
2. In the app, tap the host editor -> “Scan QR”
3. Point camera at the QR code

Manual Entry

1. Use the base URL and token printed by sidemesh up, or run sidemesh pair again
2. In the app, tap “Add host manually”
3. Enter:
   • Label: friendly name (e.g., “MacBook”, “lab-vps”)
   • Base URL: http://HOST:PORT
   • Token: bearer token from sidemesh pair

Network Requirements

• Host and client must be on the same network
• Recommended: Tailscale or private LAN
• Do not expose the daemon directly to the public internet

Multiple Hosts

The app can store multiple hosts. Each host runs its own daemon with its own token.

Troubleshooting

“Connection failed”

• Verify host and client are on the same network
• Check sidemesh status shows healthy
• Verify token matches exactly
• Try http://HOST:PORT/healthz in a browser