Guide to adding MCP server and running inspector with Node.js over 20.7.5
demo-mcp-server is an essential component in the Model Context Protocol (MCP) ecosystem, designed to facilitate seamless integration of various AI applications with specific data sources and tools. Similar to how USB-C unifies device connections across different electronics, MCP server provides a standardized protocol for diverse AI applications like Claude Desktop, Continue, Cursor, etc., enabling efficient communication and collaboration between them.
demo-mcp-server introduces robust functionality that enhances the interoperability of AI applications. By adhering to the MCP standards, this server ensures compatibility with a wide array of MCP clients, offering a versatile interface for both developers and end-users. The protocol flow is meticulously designed to support real-time data exchange, making it an indispensable tool in modern AI development.
The architecture of demo-mcp-server is built upon the robust foundation provided by the MCP framework. It leverages Node.js for runtime execution and integrates seamlessly with .NET applications through command-line interfaces (CLI). The server connects to various data sources or tools, ensuring that AI applications can leverage diverse datasets without additional configuration.
To begin using demo-mcp-server, ensure you have a compatible version of Node.js installed (version >22.7.5). Here’s how you can set up the environment:
Add "demo-mcp-server" to your .vscode/mcp.json
file:
{
"servers": {
"demo-mcp-server": {
"type": "stdio",
"command": "dotnet",
"args": ["run", "--project", "C:\\Workspaces\\demo-mcp-server\\mcp.csproj"]
}
}
}
Launch the inspector using the following command:
npx @modelcontextprotocol/inspector --config inspector/config.json --server demo-mcp-server
Imagine integrating demo-mcp-server with a financial market data source. This setup enables real-time analysis of stock prices, allowing AI applications to make timely investment decisions based on up-to-date information. The MCP protocol ensures secure and reliable data streams, enhancing the decision-making process.
In content creation and entertainment applications, demo-mcp-server can facilitate interactive storytelling experiences where users are dynamically served narratives based on user input. Through the MCP client compatibility matrix, such applications can easily connect to this server, resulting in compelling and personalized stories that adapt to the user’s preferences.
The MCP client compatibility matrix for demo-mcp-server is as follows:
MCP Client | Resources | Tools | Prompts | Status |
---|---|---|---|---|
Claude Desktop | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Full Support |
Continue | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Full Support |
Cursor | ❌ (Tools) | ✅ | ❌ (Prompts) | Tools Only |
This matrix indicates that not all tools or prompts of certain MCP clients are yet supported by demo-mcp-server, but full support is available for resources and tool functionalities.
To further integrate with other tools in the MCP ecosystem, consider using an integration flow diagram:
graph TD
A[AI Application] -->|MCP Client| B[MCP Protocol]
B --> C[MCP Server]
C --> D[Data Source/Tool]
style A fill:#e1f5fe
style C fill:#f3e5f5
style D fill:#e8f5e8
This diagram illustrates the seamless flow of data and commands from an AI application to a data source via demo-mcp-server, emphasizing its role in maintaining high performance.
To further customize or secure your setup, you can use configuration samples like this:
{
"mcpServers": {
"[server-name]": {
"command": "npx",
"args": ["-y", "@modelcontextprotocol/server-[name]"],
"env": {
"API_KEY": "your-api-key"
}
}
}
}
Ensure you keep your API keys secure and follow best practices for authentication and authorization.
Q1: Can demo-mcp-server work with any version of Node.js? A1: Yes, but we recommend using versions greater than 22.7.5 to ensure compatibility and stability.
Q2: Is there a specific configuration file needed for demonstration purposes?
A2: Yes, you need to add the provided configuration to your .vscode/mcp.json
file.
Q3: Are all AI applications compatible with demo-mcp-server? A3: Most are, but check the compatibility matrix to ensure specific client support.
Q4: How can I enhance security in my MCP setup? A4: Secure your API keys and follow standard security protocols for environment variables.
Q5: Can this server be used in multiple AI workflows simultaneously? A5: Yes, each application instance can connect independently, supporting parallel workflows efficiently.
To contribute to the demo-mcp-server project or enhance its functionality, follow these guidelines:
For more information about the broader MCP ecosystem and resources, visit:
Stay informed about updates and join discussions with fellow developers to build innovative AI solutions.
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