Introduction to add-mcp
add-mcp is a CLI tool that makes it effortless to install Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers to your favorite coding agents. With a single command, you can extend your AI coding assistant with powerful integrations, databases, file systems, and specialized tools.What is add-mcp?
add-mcp simplifies the installation and configuration of MCP servers across multiple coding agents. Instead of manually editing configuration files for each agent, you can use one command to install servers to Claude Code, Cursor, VS Code, OpenCode, and more.Key features
Universal compatibility
Install to 10+ coding agents including Claude Code, Cursor, VS Code, OpenCode, Codex, and more
Smart detection
Automatically detects agents in your project and globally installed agents
Multiple server types
Supports remote servers (HTTP/SSE), npm packages, and custom commands
Flexible installation
Install globally or per-project with automatic scope detection
Zero installation
Run via npx - no need to install the CLI globally
Custom headers
Pass authentication headers for protected remote servers
What are MCP servers?
Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers extend your coding agent’s capabilities by providing tools, resources, and context. MCP servers can:- Integrate with external services (Notion, Linear, GitHub, etc.)
- Connect to databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, etc.)
- Provide file system access
- Offer specialized tools for your workflow
Supported agents
add-mcp works with all major AI coding assistants:| Agent | Project Support | Global Support |
|---|---|---|
| Claude Code | ✓ | ✓ |
| Claude Desktop | - | ✓ |
| Codex | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cursor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gemini CLI | ✓ | ✓ |
| Goose | - | ✓ |
| GitHub Copilot CLI | ✓ | ✓ |
| OpenCode | ✓ | ✓ |
| VS Code | ✓ | ✓ |
| Zed | ✓ | ✓ |
Quick example
Install a remote MCP server:Get started
Quickstart
Install your first MCP server in under a minute
Installation
Learn about system requirements and setup