mcp-nest
mcp-nest is a unified CLI that installs, configures, and manages Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers across multiple AI IDEs and desktops (Claude Desktop, Cursor, Windsurf) with a single command. It eliminates manual editing of mcp_config.json files by automating server installation, API token prompts, and configuration writing. It is for developers using MCP servers in AI tools who want a streamlined, multi-client setup.
✨ Key features
- Multi-client sync: configure Claude Desktop, Cursor, and Windsurf at once.
- Built-in registry with 31 production-ready MCP servers.
- Zero global bloat: servers run via npx/uvx on-demand.
- Validated configs to prevent JSON syntax errors.
- Search and inspect server requirements before installing.
- Doctor command for health checks of runtimes and configs.
🎯 Use cases
- Install GitHub MCP server across all AI clients with one command.
- Set up a development profile with git, filesystem, and docker servers.
- Backup and restore MCP configurations before making changes.
- Export installed server list to share with a team.
- Search for available MCP servers and inspect their required API keys.
📦 Installation
🧰 Requirements: Python 3.9+ and Node.js 18+ (for npx-based servers). No API keys required for installation, but some servers prompt for tokens.
pip install mcp-nest
From source:
git clone https://github.com/CharanBharathula/mcpx.git
cd mcpx
pip install -e ".[dev]"
🚀 Usage
mcp-nest install github
This installs the GitHub server, prompts for the required API token, and writes the configuration to Claude Desktop, Cursor, and Windsurf.
❓ FAQ
What are the system requirements for mcp-nest?
Python 3.9+ and Node.js 18+ (for npx-based servers) are required.
Which clients are supported?
Claude Desktop, Cursor, and Windsurf are supported, with config paths for Windows and macOS/Linux.
How do I install a server without writing to disk?
Use the --dry-run flag with any command to preview changes without writing to disk.
Can I add custom servers to the registry?
Yes, you can add servers from a custom registry URL using mcp-nest registry add <url>.
📊 Repository
🤖 Overview, features, install steps and FAQ were generated from the project's README on Sep 4, 2026. Always check the original source before running commands.