MCP Server Extension

What is MCP Server Extension?

MCP Server Extension is a simple VS Code extension that automatically starts an MCP (Model Context Protocol) server for GitHub Copilot tool discovery. It provides three built-in tools (add numbers, get weather, list files) with no configuration required.

How to use MCP Server Extension?

Install the .vsix file, restart VS Code, open GitHub Copilot Chat, and ask questions like "Add 15 and 27", "What's the weather forecast for New York?", or "List files in the current directory". The extension automatically configures the MCP server on load.

Key features of MCP Server Extension

• Auto-starts MCP server when extension loads
• Three built-in tools for GitHub Copilot
• No configuration required from user
• Installs Python dependencies automatically (fastmcp)
• Configures MCP server via stdio protocol
• Creates configuration files for Copilot discovery

Use cases of MCP Server Extension

• Adding two numbers through GitHub Copilot Chat
• Fetching simulated weather forecasts for any location
• Listing files in the current directory via Copilot
• Extending Copilot with custom MCP tools (by editing mcp_server.py)

FAQ from MCP Server Extension

What are the requirements for MCP Server Extension?

Python 3.x must be available in your PATH. You need VS Code 1.80.0 or later and the GitHub Copilot extension installed.

How do I troubleshoot if GitHub Copilot doesn’t discover the tools?

Restart VS Code completely, check that Python 3.x is in your PATH, and verify configuration files at %USERPROFILE%\.vscode\mcp_servers.json. You can also test the server independently by running python mcp_server.py.

Where does MCP Server Extension store its configuration files?

The extension creates configuration at %USERPROFILE%\.vscode\mcp_servers.json and %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Claude\claude_desktop_config.json.

How does MCP Server Extension work under the hood?

The extension automatically installs fastmcp Python dependencies, configures MCP server files for GitHub Copilot discovery, and makes tools available through the stdio protocol.

Can I add my own custom tools to MCP Server Extension?

Yes. Edit mcp_server.py to add new tools using the @server.tool() decorator, then rebuild the extension with vsce package and reinstall the .vsix file.