Podman MCP Server

What is Podman MCP Server?

An MCP server that provides tools to manage container runtimes supporting Podman and Docker. It allows AI agents to interact with containers, images, networks, and volumes through a standardized interface.

How to use Podman MCP Server?

Install via npm (npx -y podman-mcp-server@latest) or download the latest release binary. Configure in Claude Desktop, VS Code, or Goose CLI by adding it to the MCP servers configuration. Optionally pass CLI arguments like --port for HTTP mode or --podman-impl to force a specific backend implementation.

Key features of Podman MCP Server

• Supports both Podman and Docker container runtimes
• Provides tools for containers, images, networks, and volumes
• Multiple transport modes: STDIO, HTTP (Streamable HTTP/SSE), and SSE-only
• Auto-detects best backend: REST API via socket or CLI wrapper
• Configurable output format (text or JSON)
• Easy integration with Claude Desktop, VS Code, and Goose CLI

Use cases of Podman MCP Server

• Launch and manage containers from AI assistants
• Build and push container images without manual Docker commands
• Inspect running containers, view logs, and stop/remove containers
• List available networks and volumes to manage infrastructure

FAQ from Podman MCP Server

What container runtimes does Podman MCP Server support?

It supports both Podman and Docker, auto-detecting the best available implementation.

How can I install Podman MCP Server?

Install it via npm (npx -y podman-mcp-server@latest) or download the latest release binary from GitHub.

What transport modes are available?

STDIO mode (default), HTTP mode with Streamable HTTP at /mcp and SSE at /sse, and a legacy SSE-only mode (deprecated).

What are the dependencies?

Requires Node.js/npm for the npm install, or a standalone binary. Additionally, Podman or Docker must be installed and accessible on the system.

Can I force a specific backend implementation?

Yes, use the --podman-impl flag with either api (Podman REST API via Unix socket) or cli (Podman/Docker CLI wrapper). By default, it auto-detects.