Building MCP Servers from GitHub

This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of how to use Cline to build an existing MCP server from a GitHub repository.

Finding an MCP Server

There are multiple places online to find MCP servers:

• Cline can automatically add MCP servers to its list, which you can then edit. Cline can clone repositories directly from GitHub and build the servers for you.

• GitHub: Two of the most common places to find MCP servers on GitHub include:

  • Official MCP servers repository

  • Awesome-MCP servers repository

• Online directories: Several websites list MCP servers including:

  • mcpservers.org

  • mcp.so

  • glama.ai/mcp/servers

  These directories allow users to sort the servers by various criteria such as downloads, date, stars, and use case. Each entry provides information such as features, tools, and configuration instructions.

• PulseMCP: This website has a blog post discussing how AI could use MCP servers to make websites obsolete. PulseMCP also includes an FAQ section about MCP servers: https://www.pulsemcp.com/

Building with Cline

1. Initiate the Process: Provide Cline with the following information:

   • GitHub Repository URL: The URL of the server's repository.

   • README.md Contents: This is optional but helpful for Cline to understand the server's purpose and configuration. You can copy the README.md file from the GitHub repository.

2. Example Interaction with Cline:

   User: "Cline, I want to add the MCP server for Brave browser control. Here's the GitHub link: https://github.com/modelcontextprotocol/servers/tree/main/src/brave Can you add it?"
   
   Cline: "OK. Cloning the repository to the MCP directory. It needs to be built because it has a 'package.json' file. Should I run 'npm run build'?"
   
   User: "Yes, build it."
   
   Cline: "Build complete. This server needs a browser path. Where's your Brave browser executable?"
   
   User: "It's in '/Applications/Brave Browser.app/Contents/MacOS/Brave Browser'."
   
   Cline: "OK. I've updated the server config with that path and added it to 'cline_mcp_settings.json'. Anything else?"
   
   User: "No, that's all. Let's test it."
   
   Cline: "Great! Starting the MCP Inspector to test the server connection. After that, we can try controlling the browser from Cline."

3. Cline's Actions: Based on your instructions, Cline will perform the following:

   • Repository Cloning: Cline will clone the repository to your local machine, usually in the directory specified in your configuration.

   • Tweaking: You can guide Cline to modify the server’s configuration. For instance:

     • User: "This server requires an API key. Can you find where it should be added?"

     • Cline may automatically update the cline_mcp_settings.json file or other relevant files based on your instructions.

   • Building the Server: Cline will run the appropriate build command for the server, which is commonly npm run build.

   • Adding Server to Settings: Cline will add the server’s configuration to the cline_mcp_settings.json file.

Testing and Troubleshooting

1. Test the Server: Once Cline finishes the build process, test the server to make sure it works as expected. Cline can assist you if you encounter any problems.

2. MCP Inspector: You can use the MCP Inspector to test the server’s connection and functionality.

Best Practices

• Understand the Basics: While Cline simplifies the process, it’s beneficial to have a basic understanding of the server’s code, the MCP protocol (), and how to configure the server. This allows for more effective troubleshooting and customization.

• Clear Instructions: Provide clear and specific instructions to Cline throughout the process.

• Testing: Thoroughly test the server after installation and configuration to ensure it functions correctly.

• Version Control: Use a version control system (like Git) to track changes to the server’s code.

• Stay Updated: Keep your MCP servers updated to benefit from the latest features and security patches.