what is mcp-vscode-template?
The mcp-vscode-template is a server template designed for use with Visual Studio Code (VS Code) that facilitates the setup of an MCP (Multi-Channel Processing) server.
how to use mcp-vscode-template?
To use the mcp-vscode-template, follow the setup instructions to install the necessary dependencies, create a virtual environment, and configure the server settings in VS Code. You can initialize the project and start the server using specific commands in the terminal.
key features of mcp-vscode-template?
- Easy setup for an MCP server in VS Code.
- Customizable server configuration.
- Based on existing work with modifications for enhanced functionality.
use cases of mcp-vscode-template?
- Setting up a development environment for MCP applications.
- Running external reconnaissance scripts in a controlled environment.
- Facilitating collaborative development in security projects.
FAQ from mcp-vscode-template?
- What programming language is used?
The project is primarily written in Python.
- Is there any specific Python version required?
Yes, Python version 3.11 or above is recommended for this project.
- Can I modify the server settings?
Yes, the server settings can be customized in the VS Code settings.json file.
mcp-vscode-template
MCP server template for VS Code Agent
Setup
Install uv however you like. May options available.
https://docs.astral.sh/uv/getting-started/installation/
Project setup is heavily based off of Renae Schilg's work. I didn't even bother to change the project name as an homage although I did deviate on a few things, namely not using Claude Desktop, but also modified external-recon.py fairly heavily.
https://nae-bo.medium.com/building-your-first-offensive-security-mcp-server-dd655e258d5f
# Initialize project
uv init external-recon
cd external-recon
I had to modify the python versions in .python-version to 3.11 or something above 3.8 or 3.10
I also had to modify the line requires-python = ">=3.11" in pyroject.toml to something above 3.8 or 3.10
Mileage will vary... It may not be necessary.
# Create virtual environment and activate it
uv venv --python 3.11
source .venv/bin/activate
# Install mcp
uv add "mcp[cli]"
# Install dnspython (dependency for external-recon.py, not necessary for all projects, but for this one yes)
uv pip install dnspython
# Create MCP server external-recon.py file or empty and rename main.py
touch external-recon.py
The VS Code settings.json should be modified.
Use which uv to find the path to uv.
The "/path/to/project/external-recon" should refer to the project path, where the MCP server .py file is located (use absoulte path).
settings.json
"mcp": {
"servers": {
"external-recon": {
"command": "/path/to/uv",
"args": [
"--directory",
"/path/to/project/external-recon",
"run",
"external-recon.py"
]
}
}
},
One of the main differences between Renae's work and mine is I used @mcp.tool() instead of @mcp.prompt() in external-recon.py
Start the server
From the venv of the project, start the server with uv run external-recon.py
Example:
(external-recon) user@workstation external-recon % uv run external-recon.py
