Edit File Lines MCP Server

What is Edit File Lines MCP Server?

A TypeScript-based MCP server that provides tools for making precise, line-based edits to text files within allowed directories, using string or regex pattern matching.

How to use Edit File Lines MCP Server?

The server provides tools (edit_file_lines, approve_edit, get_file_lines, search_file) that can be invoked from any MCP client. Edits can be previewed with a dry run, then applied by providing the returned state ID to approve_edit.

Key features of Edit File Lines MCP Server

• Replace entire lines or specific text matches with edit_file_lines
• Use regex patterns for complex multi-line edits
• Dry run mode to preview changes before applying
• Two-step approval workflow with expiring state IDs
• Search files for patterns and inspect lines with context

Use cases of Edit File Lines MCP Server

• Update configuration values in source code files
• Modify component props or JSX structures
• Rename variables or strings across multiple lines
• Safely apply batch edits with preview and approval
• Locate exact line numbers before editing via search

FAQ from Edit File Lines MCP Server

What does the edit_file_lines tool do?

It edits specific line ranges in a file by replacing matched strings or regex patterns, with optional dry run to preview changes.

How do I apply changes after a dry run?

Call the approve_edit tool with the state ID returned by edit_file_lines to commit the modifications.

What happens if a state ID expires?

State IDs expire after a short time; attempting to use an expired or invalid ID returns an error.

What files can I edit with this server?

Only files within allowed directories configured for the server; the README mentions "allowed directories" but does not specify how they are set.

What additional tools are available besides edit_file_lines?

You can use get_file_lines to inspect specific lines with context, and search_file to find lines matching text or regex patterns across the file.