Tutorial - Build a Private Site Using the Codex Plugin

What it is

The source article describes Sites as a Codex plugin that can turn a prompt into a hosted, workspace-private site and states that Sites runs in the Codex desktop app rather than the ChatGPT web or mobile app. ECU should keep this as pilot-only until governance decisions are made.

Responsible use reminder! Use ChatGPT Edu only in accordance with ECU guidance, instructor expectations, and applicable data-protection requirements. Do not enter restricted, confidential, regulated, or sensitive ECU information unless the use case has been approved.

Learning objectives

  • Understand what this feature does.
  • Know when the feature is appropriate to use.
  • Complete the basic setup or usage flow.
  • Review results before relying on ChatGPT output.

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

Confirm Codex and Sites are approved for ECU use.

ECU screenshot

Step 2

Install the Codex desktop app only from an approved source.

ECU screenshot

Step 3

Sign in with the ECU ChatGPT Edu account.

ECU screenshot

Step 4

Start a new Codex chat.

ECU screenshot

Step 5

Mention or select Sites if available.

Step 6

Describe the private site to build using non-sensitive content.

Step 7

Ask Codex to deploy the site and provide a URL.

Step 8

Open the URL and confirm workspace sign-in requirements.

Step 9

Review content, sharing, persistence, and security before broader use.

Sample prompt

Build a private study group hub for my ECU course group. Include weekly meeting times, rotating study leader schedule, shared link library, and checklist of covered topics. Require workspace sign-in and keep notes and links saved between visits.

Expected result

Codex builds and deploys a workspace-gated site based on the prompt, if the feature is enabled.

Troubleshooting

  • Do not publish this generally until ECU confirms Codex/Sites availability.
  • Do not place restricted or sensitive data in a generated site without approval.
  • Confirm site ownership, retention, and support workflow before use.

ECU validation checklist

☐ Codex availability

☐ Sites availability

☐ ECU approval for generated sites

☐ Retention and ownership guidance

Related ECU resources

  • AI at ECU
  • ChatGPT Edu at ECU [coming soon]
  • Responsible AI / data guidance: [coming soon]
  • Submit an ECU support request: [coming soon]
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