MySQL MCP Server: Direct Access to MySQL Databases through Model Context Protocol (MCP)

Overview: What is MySQL MCP Server?

The MySQL MCP Server is a specialized application designed to provide direct and seamless access for AI applications via Model Context Protocol (MCP) to the robust database management system, MySQL. By leveraging MCP's standardized interface, AI tools such as Claude Desktop, Continue, Cursor, and more can interact with MySQL databases. This integration allows users to query data, manage database content, and execute SQL commands efficiently, enhancing the overall performance and flexibility of AI applications.

🔧 Core Features & MCP Capabilities

The MySQL MCP Server supports a range of core capabilities, seamlessly integrating with the Model Context Protocol (MCP) for efficient communication between AI applications and the underlying MySQL database infrastructure.

Resources:

• Notes Access: Notes stored in the database can be accessed using note:///{id} URIs. Each note includes a title and content.
• Plain Text MIME Type: Serves simple content access with a plain text mime type.

Tools:

• create_note: A tool to add new text notes to the database, requiring title and content as parameters.
• list_tables: Lists all tables present in your connected MySQL database.
• count_tables: Provides a count of total tables within the specified database.
• search_tables: Searches for tables based on a LIKE pattern, which is useful for locating specific database elements.
• describe_table: Retrieves the structure details of any given table.
• execute_sql: Executes custom SQL queries directly from AI applications.

These features enable AI applications to interact with MySQL databases in a streamlined and standardized manner, aligning perfectly with the goals of MCP for universal compatibility across various AI tools.

⚙️ MCP Architecture & Protocol Implementation

The architecture of the MySQL MCP Server is designed around adherence to the Model Context Protocol (MCP), ensuring seamless integration with other compatible applications. The server’s structure is modular and scalable, allowing for easy extension and customization to meet diverse database management needs.

• Communication Layer: Implements a RESTful API using HTTP/HTTPS protocols over TCP connections.
• Database Management: Utilizes MySQL as the primary backend storage system, leveraging its efficiency and robustness in handling large datasets and complex queries.
• Command Handling: Manages CLI commands such as create_note, list_tables, etc., converting them into appropriate database transactions.

By following MCP guidelines, this server ensures that data flows efficiently between AI applications and MySQL databases, aligning with the broader MCP ecosystem to provide a unified data access solution for various applications.

🚀 Getting Started with Installation

To get started with installing and configuring the MySQL MCP Server, follow these steps:

1. Git Clone Repository:

   git clone [email protected]:LeonMelamud/mysql-mcp.git
   cd mysql-mcp
   

2. Install Dependencies:

   npm install
   

3. Create Environment Variables for MySQL Connection: Create a .env file in the project root to store your connection details:

   MYSQL_HOST=localhost
   MYSQL_USER=your_username
   MYSQL_PASSWORD=your_password
   MYSQL_DATABASE=your_database
   

4. Build and Run Server:

   npm run build && npx node ./build/index.js --env=path/to/.env
   

This setup provides a solid foundation for integrating MySQL MCP Server into your AI environments, ensuring smooth communication through the Model Context Protocol.

💡 Key Use Cases in AI Workflows

Case Study 1: Project Management and Collaboration

• Scenario: A team of developers uses Claude Desktop to manage project timelines and tasks.
• Implementation: Developers can create notes titled "Project Timeline" with detailed task allocations. The create_note tool facilitates quick data entry, while the search_tables and describe_table functions help in updating or referencing these notes.

Case Study 2: Data Analysis and Reporting

• Scenario: A business analyst uses Continue to generate real-time reports on sales performance.
• Implementation: The execute_sql endpoint can be queried with custom SQL commands such as SELECT * FROM sales WHERE month=current. This integration provides the analytics necessary for informed decision-making, enabling real-time insights into sales trends.

🔌 Integration with MCP Clients

The MySQL MCP Server is fully compatible with a variety of AI clients, including:

• Claude Desktop: Supports full feature integration via its configuration file.
• Continue: Enables similar functionalities through custom setup within the app’s settings.
• Cursor: Access is restricted to database tools only due to current compatibility limitations.

To integrate with these applications, add configurations as shown below:

For Claude Desktop:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "mysql": {
      "command": "node",
      "args": ["/path/to/mysql-server/build/index.js"],
      "env": {
        "MYSQL_HOST": "localhost",
        "MYSQL_USER": "your_username",
        "MYSQL_PASSWORD": "your_password",
        "MYSQL_DATABASE": "your_database"
      }
    }
  }
}

For Continue:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "mysql": {
      "command": "node",
      "args": ["/path/to/mysql-server/build/index.js"],
      "env": {
        "MYSQL_HOST": "localhost",
        "MYSQL_USER": "your_username",
        "MYSQL_PASSWORD": "your_password",
        "MYSQL_DATABASE": "your_database"
      },
      "disabled": false,
      "autoApprove": []
    }
  }
}

These configurations enable seamless data access and manipulation, enhancing the functionality of both AI applications and database management systems.

📊 Performance & Compatibility Matrix

The MySQL MCP Server excels in terms of performance and compatibility across various environments. Below is a detailed matrix showcasing its capabilities:

MCP Client	Resources	Tools	Prompts	Status
Claude Desktop	✅	✅	✅	Full Support
Continue	✅	✅	✅	Full Support
Cursor	❌ (Tools Only)	✅	❌	Limited

This table highlights the comprehensive support provided across MCP clients while also mapping out areas for future improvements.

🛠️ Advanced Configuration & Security

For developers and system administrators, advanced configuration options are essential. Key aspects of configuration include:

• Environment Variables: Customizing .env files to fit specific deployment needs.
• Security Settings: Implementing secure connections using HTTPS instead of HTTP where possible.
• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Enforcing granular permissions for each user role.

Implement RBAC by defining roles and corresponding access levels in the server’s settings, ensuring only authorized users can perform certain operations on the database.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Q: Can I use MySQL MCP Server with other databases?

   • A: Currently, the server is specifically built for MySQL but can be adapted to support other databases with minor modifications.

2. Q: How secure is the data transfer between AI applications and the server?

   • A: Data transfers are secured using HTTPS protocols, ensuring safe and encrypted communication.

3. Q: Do I need specific permissions or roles to use MySQL MCP Server?

   • A: Yes, certain admin-level permissions are required, as outlined in the RBAC section.

4. Q: Will this server work with older versions of Node.js?

   • A: We recommend using Node.js 18 or higher for optimal performance and security.

5. Q: Can I run multiple instances of MySQL MCP Server for parallel processing?

   • A: Yes, you can deploy multiple instances to handle increased load and ensure high availability.

👨‍💻 Development & Contribution Guidelines

Contributions are welcome! If you wish to participate in the development of this project or contribute changes, please follow these guidelines:

1. Fork the Repository: Start by forking this repository on GitHub.
2. Clone Locally: Clone your fork locally and start contributing.
3. Install Dependencies: Ensure all dependencies are installed as per instructions in the README.

To submit a pull request, ensure that tests pass and documentation is updated to reflect any changes. Engage with the community through issues or discussions for additional support.

🌐 MCP Ecosystem & Resources

For developers looking to integrate their projects into the broader Model Context Protocol (MCP) ecosystem, resources are available to guide you:

• Official MCP Documentation: Explore comprehensive guides and best practices at Model Context Protocol Official Website.
• Community Forums: Participate in discussions and share insights on forums dedicated to MCP development.
• MCP Client Tools: Utilize tools like MCP Inspector for debugging which is accessible via npm run inspector.

Emphasizing the value of this server within the broader context of AI application integration, the MySQL MCP Server stands as a critical piece in the puzzle of creating flexible and interconnected artificial intelligence solutions.