The one-sentence definition
DeepSeek Harness is an open-source Agent workbench developed by DeepSeek AI. You start it on your computer and use it in a browser. After you choose a project folder and a model, the Agent can help inspect files, edit them, and run approved commands.
The four parts you will see most often
| Token | Role | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Model adapter | Connects the workbench to the model service you choose | You configure the provider and its sign-in or credential |
| Tool registry | Lists what the Agent is allowed to do, such as read a file or run a command | Sensitive actions can require your approval |
| Session log | Keeps the conversation and tool results together | A saved session is easier to resume and review |
| Web UI | Shows chats, project folders, approvals, and settings in the browser | It runs locally; it is not a separate desktop installer |
What happens during normal use
- 01
Start the Web UI
The official command starts a local service and opens the browser interface. Advanced users can also use a headless profile.
- 02
Choose a workspace
Select a project folder you are comfortable letting the Agent inspect. Begin with a copy or a disposable folder while learning.
- 03
Review permission requests
When an action needs approval, read the requested command and target before allowing it. The Agent suggestion is not the same as your authorization.
- 04
Review the result
Use the saved conversation, changed files, and command output to confirm what actually happened before keeping the change.
Where visual themes fit
The Web interface exposes color values that a Theme can replace and restore. DSH Themes packages that process so users can browse and install checked visual options. Full Skin is a DSH Themes publishing format, not an official DeepSeek Harness skin standard.
Continue with the right next question
Understand a new repository
Start Harness in a small project, configure a model, choose the workspace, and ask for an explanation before requesting changes. Confirm that the response names real files you can open.
Read this repository and explain its main entry points, how to run it, and where its tests live. Cite file paths. Do not change files yet.Read the primary documentation
Common questions
Before you make a change
Answers about formats, compatibility, evidence, and rollback.
What does this guide verify?
This guide covers: Official dsh-v0.1.3-alpha.1 README and architecture at source commit d347e703; Official Web UI guide; Fixed 0.1.3-alpha.1 source and item-level verification
What should I do first?
DeepSeek Harness gives an AI model a workspace, tools, permissions, and a browser interface. You can use it without first learning its internal architecture; this guide explains only the parts that affect everyday use.
Which boundary matters most?
The model provides the reasoning. DeepSeek Harness provides the workspace, tools, history, and permission controls that let the model do useful work. Changing the model does not automatically change those controls.
Is Harness itself a language model?
No. It provides the workspace, tools, sessions, permissions, and interfaces around the model you configure. Model access and usage depend on that provider.
Continue learning
Continue from the verified evidence
Compare published artifacts or return to the installation documentation.