micropython wasm developer-tools code-execution

Running Python code in a sandbox with MicroPython and WASM

simonwillison.net

June 6, 2026

9 min read

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51/100

Summary

Micropython-wasm is an alpha package designed to run Python code in a sandbox using MicroPython and WebAssembly (WASM). It serves as a code execution sandbox plugin for Datasette Agent, named datasette-agent-micropython.

Key Takeaways

The author released an alpha package called micropython-wasm for running Python code in a sandbox using MicroPython and WebAssembly.
The sandbox aims to execute code safely within Python applications, with strict controls on memory, CPU, file access, and network communication.
WebAssembly is identified as a promising solution for sandboxing due to its design for executing untrusted code securely in web environments.
The author emphasizes the need for a robust, well-documented, and actively maintained sandboxing solution for plugin-style code execution.

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Community Sentiment

Mixed

Positives

Running Python in a WASM environment allows beginners to practice coding safely in the browser, potentially increasing accessibility to programming education.
Using WASM to run Python code can enhance LLM capabilities by enabling them to perform calculations autonomously, reducing the risk of hallucinations.
Judge0 is a promising solution for sandboxing code execution, which could streamline the integration of various programming languages in LLM applications.
Monty shows potential for LLMs, despite being a subset of Python, as it allows for flexibility in handling limitations while still being backed by a solid team.

Concerns

There are safety concerns regarding new implementations like Monty, which may not be fully vetted yet, raising questions about their reliability in production environments.
The limitations of MicroPython and similar tools mean that existing Python code cannot be easily utilized, which could hinder developers looking to leverage their current codebases.