What it does
The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is a shared standard that lets AI chat apps connect to outside tools and data. An MCP server is a small program that offers one set of tools to the AI, for example reading files or fetching a web page.
This collection holds a small set of example servers kept by the MCP steering group. They include tools for fetching web content, working with files and folders under access limits, reading and searching Git projects (Git is a system for tracking changes to code), a long-term memory, step-by-step problem solving, and time zone conversion. Several older servers have moved to a separate archive.
The makers say these are teaching examples for developers building their own servers, not finished products. To use one, you add it to the settings of an MCP-compatible app, such as Claude Desktop. The README points to the MCP Registry for a wider list of published servers.
Who it's for
Developers learning how to build MCP servers, and curious users who want to give an AI chat app access to tools like files or Git.
Can I use it without coding?
With some setup. You run a server with a short command and add a few lines to your AI app's settings file. New to this? Start here.
Can I run it?
- Cost
- FreeNothing to pay or sign up for.
- Runs on
- Windows
Try it
- Install an MCP-compatible app such as Claude Desktop.
- Pick a server from the list, such as Memory or Git.
- Add that server to your app's settings file, following the example in the README.
Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?
Before you install
- Only download from the official GitHub page. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
- Plain-AyI is an independent guide and doesn't host or review the software it lists. Please check each project's official page before installing.
- No standard license listed. Check the GitHub page before using it for business.
- More on staying safe