Configuring Model Context Protocol (MCP) Servers in Cline

calendar Apr 15, 2025 · 2 min read · MCP Model Context Protocol Cline VSCode Extension AI LLM Configuration MCP Server Tools Context  ·
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Understanding the Basics

  • MCP (Model Context Protocol): An open standard defining how applications provide context (like data sources and tools) to Large Language Models (LLMs). It acts as a universal connector, akin to a "USB-C port" for AI.
  • MCP Servers: These are essentially small programs or APIs that expose specific "tools" (functions) to LLMs (e.g., Claude). They serve as intermediaries, enabling LLMs to interact securely with external data or perform actions.
  • Functionality: Cline discovers the capabilities (tools, resources) advertised by connected MCP servers. Servers manage credentials securely, and interactions typically require user approval.

Getting & Building MCP Servers for Cline

  • Installation Required: Cline does not come with pre-installed MCP servers.

  • Obtaining Servers:

    • Find community-maintained servers (e.g., on GitHub repositories).
    • Install directly from Cline's integrated MCP Marketplace.

    Step-1:

    Click on MCP configuration

    Step-2:

    Search on marketplace configuration and click install

    • Use Cline's AI capabilities to help find or even create a server based on your needs.
    • Build a custom server from scratch using the MCP SDK.
    • Modify or customize an existing server's code.

  • Cline Assistance for Building: Cline can streamline server creation by:

    • Understanding natural language instructions to scaffold server code.
    • Automatically cloning repositories from GitHub and managing the build process.
    • Handling configurations, environment variables, and dependencies.
    • Assisting with troubleshooting and debugging during development.

Managing MCP Servers in Cline

  • Access Management: Use the "MCP Servers" icon located in Cline's top navigation bar.
  • Global Server Control:
    • Note: Utilizing MCP servers will increase LLM token usage.
    • Navigate to the Installed tab, click Advanced MCP Settings at the bottom.
    • Find the Cline > Mcp:Mode setting and select your desired global behavior (e.g., enable all, disable all, specific inclusions) from the dropdown menu.
  • Individual Server Control:
    • Click on a specific server's name within the Installed tab to open its configuration panel.
    • Enable/Disable: Use the toggle switch next to the server name.
    • Restart: Use the dedicated restart button for that server.
    • Delete: Click the trash can icon or the Delete Server button (Caution: There is no confirmation dialog before deletion).
    • Network Timeout: Configure the maximum time Cline waits for a response after calling a server tool. Options range from 30 seconds to 1 hour, with a default of 1 minute.
  • Configuration File:
    • All installed server settings are stored centrally in the cline_mcp_settings.json file.
    • Access this file for manual editing by clicking the Configure MCP Servers button at the bottom of the Installed tab. (See original documentation for example JSON structure).

References