Overview
What is MySQL MCP Server?
MySQL MCP Server is a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that enables MCP clients (such as AI assistants) to query and modify data in a MySQL database. It connects to a user-configured MySQL instance and exposes tools for executing SQL statements over standard input/output (stdio).
How to use MySQL MCP Server?
Install dependencies with npm install, build the TypeScript code with npm run build, then run mysql-server (if linked globally) or node build/index.js. Configure connection via environment variables: MYSQL_HOST, MYSQL_USER, MYSQL_PASSWORD, MYSQL_DATABASE (required), and optionally MYSQL_PORT (default 3306). Set MYSQL_ALLOW_WRITE_OPS=true to enable write tools (insert, update, delete); otherwise only read-only queries are allowed.
Key features of MySQL MCP Server
- Connects to MySQL using standard connection parameters.
- Provides MCP tools for executing SQL queries and statements.
- Read-only queries (
SELECT,SHOW,DESCRIBE) via thequerytool. - Write operations (
INSERT,UPDATE,DELETE) via separate tools. - Write tools are gated by the
MYSQL_ALLOW_WRITE_OPSenvironment variable. - Communicates over standard input/output (stdio).
Use cases of MySQL MCP Server
- AI assistants executing read-only reports or analytics on a MySQL database.
- Automating data entry with INSERT statements through a chat interface.
- Managing small-scale updates or deletions in a database via natural language.
FAQ from MySQL MCP Server
What does MySQL MCP Server do?
It acts as a bridge between MCP clients and a MySQL database, allowing AI assistants to run SQL queries and optionally modify data.
What are the dependencies for running MySQL MCP Server?
Node.js and npm are required to install and build the server. It also needs access to a running MySQL server and the corresponding connection credentials.
Where does the data reside?
All data stays in the user’s configured MySQL database. The server does not store or cache data externally.
What transport does MySQL MCP Server use?
It uses standard input/output (stdio) for communication with MCP clients.
How is authentication handled for MySQL?
Authentication is provided via the required environment variables MYSQL_USER and MYSQL_PASSWORD. Write operations can be further restricted by the optional MYSQL_ALLOW_WRITE_OPS variable, which defaults to false.