Overview
What is Gdb Mcp Server?
Gdb Mcp Server is a GDB Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that enables AI agents and other tools to interact with GDB through the MCP protocol for assisted debugging. It is intended for developers who want to leverage AI in debugging workflows.
How to use Gdb Mcp Server?
Clone the repository, install dependencies with python3 -m pip install -r requirements.txt, then start the server with python3 mcp_server.py. Configure an MCP client (e.g., Cursor) to connect to the server and use the provided tool functions to interact with GDB.
Key features of Gdb Mcp Server
- Discovers and attaches to existing GDB processes automatically
- Communicates with GDB via iTerm2 (macOS) or tmux (Linux)
- Provides a full set of debugging tools: breakpoints, stepping, memory inspection, registers, stack trace, disassembly, local variables
- Supports multi‑architecture, multi‑host, and remote debugging
- Intelligent blocking command detection with auto‑send of interrupt signal
Use cases of Gdb Mcp Server
- AI‑assisted debugging without switching between tools
- Automated remote debugging across different architectures
- Integration with AI editors like Cursor for real‑time debugging help
- Handling long‑running or blocking GDB commands (e.g.,
continue,target remote)
FAQ from Gdb Mcp Server
What are the runtime requirements?
Python 3.11 is recommended. On macOS, iTerm2 is required; on Linux, tmux is used for terminal communication. The pexpect library must be installed.
How does the server find and attach to a GDB process?
The tool sys_find_gdb_processes scans running processes and returns a list of GDB instances. Then sys_attach_to_gdb selects one and establishes communication.
Which GDB commands can be executed through the server?
Any arbitrary GDB command via gdb_execute_command, plus dedicated tools for breakpoints, stepping, continue, registers, memory, stack, locals, disassemble, and remote connection.
Is the server production‑ready?
No. The README states the project is currently under development and welcomes community feedback.
How does the server handle blocking commands?
The server automatically detects high‑risk commands (e.g., continue, target remote) and sends an interrupt signal (Ctrl‑C) if the command blocks, then returns a clear notification.