MCP servers transform modern digital practices. The interconnection of tools and data is a major challenge for businesses operating in a dynamic technological environment. The emergence of Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers facilitates this integration, optimizing the management of information flows. This selection of five essential MCP servers highlights solutions tailored to the diverse needs of AI users. These tools, chosen for their ease of use, represent a considerable asset for collaborative innovation, enabling smoother and more secure work.
Filesystem MCP
The Filesystem MCP server provides a robust interface for interacting with the local file system. This server allows efficient reading, writing, and manipulation of files. It can create, list, move, or delete directories. Installation requires configuring a specific directory in the installation JSON file.
The associated command, using npx, simplifies the execution of Node.js packages without prior installation. For example:
<!– wp:code {"content":"n"filesystem": {n "command": "npx",n "args": [n "-y",n "@modelcontextprotocol/server-filesystem",n "/Users/bruno/bureau",n "/path/to/other/allowed/dir"n ]n}n“} –>
"filesystem": {
"command": "npx",
"args": [
"-y",
"@modelcontextprotocol/server-filesystem",
"/Users/bruno/bureau",
"/path/to/other/allowed/dir"
]
}
With this server, simple and direct tasks can be executed through natural language chat. The speed of processing and reduced latency appeal to many users.
Playwright MCP
The Playwright MCP server stands out for its ability to interact with web pages. It can take screenshots, generate test code, and execute JavaScript in a real browsing environment. Installation is easily done through tools provided by Cursor.
This server is configured via a command that makes its functionalities accessible. An example of configuration is as follows:
<!– wp:code {"content":"n"Playwright": {n "command": "npx @playwright/mcp@latest",n "env": {}n}n“} –>
"Playwright": {
"command": "npx @playwright/mcp@latest",
"env": {}
}
When asked to take a screenshot of a web page, the server successfully executes the task and saves the result at the specified path.
Browserbase MCP
The Browserbase server allows for efficient extraction of structured data from the Web. Through its browsing function, it identifies and automatically fills forms. Entering an API key and a Project_ID is necessary during installation, ensuring smooth operation.
When a request for identification for a specific form is made, the result provided by the server meets expectations. Although the screenshot function is less effective, its use remains relevant, especially in a SEO context.
Stripe MCP
The Stripe MCP server was designed to interact with Stripe’s payment processing services. This server allows for the creation of new customers, products, prices, and managing invoices. Configuration requires retrieving a secret key from the Stripe site.
When requesting this server to create a customer profile, the process is completed quickly. The information is correctly displayed on the online payment interface.
GitHub MCP
The GitHub MCP server facilitates the automation of workflows in software projects. It allows extracting and analyzing data from GitHub repositories. Installation is done with a single command:
<!– wp:code {"content":"n"docker run -i --rm -e GITHUB_PERSONAL_ACCESS_TOKEN ghcr.io/github/github-mcp-server"n“} –>
"docker run -i --rm -e GITHUB_PERSONAL_ACCESS_TOKEN ghcr.io/github/github-mcp-server"
This command launches a temporary application from GitHub, equipped with the necessary permissions. When requesting a code correction, the server executes the task with clarity and precision.
Questions and answers about the five essential MCP servers of the moment
What are the main MCP servers currently available on the market?
The main MCP servers include Filesystem, Playwright, Browserbase, Stripe, and GitHub, each offering various functionalities tailored to specific needs.
How does the Filesystem server facilitate file management?
The Filesystem server allows reading, writing, creating, organizing, and deleting files and directories with a simple installation via an appropriate JSON file.
How is the Playwright server useful for developers?
Playwright allows interaction with web pages, taking screenshots, generating test code, and executing JavaScript in a real browsing environment.
What advantages does the Browserbase server bring to web browsing?
Browserbase can extract structured data from the web, browse, and identify forms, which is particularly beneficial for SEO campaigns.
How does the Stripe server simplify online transactions?
The Stripe server connects to payment processing services to create customers, products, and manage payments, making financial operations faster and more efficient.
What is the role of the GitHub server in automating development processes?
The GitHub server allows extracting, analyzing, and automating workflows from GitHub repositories, thus facilitating code management and collaboration among developers.
How easy is it to install MCP servers in general?
The majority of MCP servers are relatively easy to install by following the instructions provided on platforms like GitHub, often with little configuration required.
What precautions should I consider when using MCP servers?
It is advisable to ensure the reliability of providers, monitor data access permissions, and stay informed about security updates to avoid data leaks.
Are MCP servers suitable for non-technical users?
Yes, many MCP servers are designed to be accessible, with simple interfaces and natural language commands, making them usable even by non-technical users.
