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Bash HTTP Requests Without Curl
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Bash HTTP Requests Without Curl

WireByte Staff · June 16, 2026

A developer has discovered a method to make HTTP requests using Bash without relying on external tools like curl. This technique involves using the /dev/tcp device file to establish a connection and send requests. The approach has been confirmed to work within Docker environments.

Key points

  • The method uses the /dev/tcp device file to establish a connection to a host and port, allowing for HTTP requests to be sent via Bash.
  • This technique has been confirmed to work within Docker environments, where external tools like curl may not be available.
  • The approach involves using the `exec` command to open a connection and the `printf` command to send the request.
  • The method can be used to add headers to the request by including additional lines in the `printf` command.

Bash HTTP Requests Without Curl

A developer has discovered a method to make HTTP requests using Bash without relying on external tools like curl. This technique involves using the /dev/tcp device file to establish a connection and send requests.

How It Works

The method uses the /dev/tcp device file to establish a connection to a host and port, allowing for HTTP requests to be sent via Bash. This involves using the exec command to open a connection and the printf command to send the request.

Docker Support

This technique has been confirmed to work within Docker environments, where external tools like curl may not be available. This makes it a useful approach for developers working with Docker containers.

Example Usage

The approach involves using the exec command to open a connection and the printf command to send the request. To add headers to the request, additional lines can be included in the printf command.

Conclusion

This method provides a useful alternative for making HTTP requests within Bash, particularly in environments where external tools are not available. It is a testament to the flexibility and power of the Bash shell.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.