V3 Start Port Shorthand Step 1 Solution Assessment

Problem Statement

Developers need ./v3 start 8001 and ./v3 start :8001 to start the local server on that port without address errors. Source: thread-20260826045505-e2bb5637, submitted 2026-08-26T04:55:05Z.

Option A: Accept port-only arguments and normalize to 127.0.0.1:PORT

Pros:

• Directly fixes the reported commands.

• Keeps the default local-only binding.

• Low product ambiguity.

Cons:

• Requires clear validation for invalid ports.

• :PORT semantics may surprise users expecting all-interface binding.

Option B: Accept :PORT as all-interface binding

Pros:

• Matches some server conventions.

• Useful for testing from other devices.

Cons:

• Less safe as a default.

• Conflicts with the local-only expectation of start.

Option C: Only improve error messages

Pros:

• Minimal change.

• Avoids changing accepted command forms.

Cons:

• Does not make the requested commands work.

Recommendation

Recommend Option A.

Brief justification:

• Port-only shorthand should remain safe and local by default while removing the current ergonomics trap.