A real environment creates real signal
Browser-only coding screens are convenient, but they hide a large part of professional software work. Engineers need to navigate unfamiliar systems, install dependencies, inspect logs, run processes, expose services, and verify behavior from the terminal.
A disposable Ubuntu workspace gives candidates a realistic surface while keeping the risk bounded. The server can be created for one session, monitored, archived, and destroyed automatically.
Empty by default, configurable when needed
Some tasks should start from nothing. Others should seed a repository at a branch, tag, or commit so candidates can investigate a realistic bug or feature request. Both workflows benefit from a clean, isolated machine.
Evidence without production access
The reviewer gets the important trail: terminal commands, coding-agent events, file activity, diffs, ports, documentation, verification checks, and cost. The candidate gets the freedom of a real box without receiving provider keys or privileged company infrastructure.