How to Use Model Context Protocol (MCP) in Claude Code
What is MCP?
Model Context Protocol (MCP) is a protocol that enables LLMs to access custom tools and services. Claude Code can connect to MCP servers to access additional tools and capabilities.
Configuration Steps
- Add MCP Server
- Run: claude mcp add <server-name>
- Or manually edit ~/.claude/claude_desktop_config.json
- Configure MCP Servers
- Specify servers in the JSON configuration
- Include necessary arguments and environment variables
Example Configuration
Filesystem Server Example:
{
"mcpServers": {
"filesystem": {
"command": "npx",
"args": [
"-y",
"@modelcontextprotocol/server-filesystem",
"/path/to/allowed/files"
]
}
}
}Important Notes
- MCP servers extend Claude Code's capabilities
- Only servers using the stdio transport type are supported
- See the Claude Code documentation for more details