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Building MCP Servers from GitHub Repositories

This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of how to use ValorIDE to build an existing MCP server from a GitHub repository.

Finding an MCP Server​

There are multiple places online to find MCP servers:

  • ValorIDE can automatically add MCP servers to its list, which you can then edit. ValorIDE can clone repositories directly from GitHub and build the servers for you.

  • GitHub: Two of the most common places to find MCP servers on GitHub include:

  • Online directories: Several websites list MCP servers including:

    These directories allow users to sort the servers by various criteria such as downloads, date, stars, and use case. Each entry provides information such as features, tools, and configuration instructions.

  • PulseMCP: This website has a blog post discussing how AI could use MCP servers to make websites obsolete. PulseMCP also includes an FAQ section about MCP servers: https://www.pulsemcp.com/

Building with ValorIDE​

  1. Initiate the Process: Provide ValorIDE with the following information:

    • GitHub Repository URL: The URL of the server's repository.
    • README.md Contents: This is optional but helpful for ValorIDE to understand the server's purpose and configuration. You can copy the README.md file from the GitHub repository.

  2. Example Interaction with ValorIDE:

    User: "ValorIDE, I want to add the MCP server for Brave browser control. Here's the GitHub link: https://github.com/modelcontextprotocol/servers/tree/main/src/brave Can you add it?"

    ValorIDE: "OK. Cloning the repository to the MCP directory. It needs to be built because it has a 'package.json' file. Should I run 'npm run build'?"

    User: "Yes, build it."

    ValorIDE: "Build complete. This server needs a browser path. Where's your Brave browser executable?"

    User: "It's in '/Applications/Brave Browser.app/Contents/MacOS/Brave Browser'."

    ValorIDE: "OK. I've updated the server config with that path and added it to 'valoride_mcp_settings.json'. Anything else?"

    User: "No, that's all. Let's test it."

    ValorIDE: "Great! Starting the MCP Inspector to test the server connection. After that, we can try controlling the browser from ValorIDE."

  3. ValorIDE's Actions: Based on your instructions, ValorIDE will perform the following:

    • Repository Cloning: ValorIDE will clone the repository to your local machine, usually in the directory specified in your configuration.
    • Tweaking: You can guide ValorIDE to modify the server’s configuration. For instance:
      • User: "This server requires an API key. Can you find where it should be added?"
      • ValorIDE may automatically update the valoride_mcp_settings.json file or other relevant files based on your instructions.
    • Building the Server: ValorIDE will run the appropriate build command for the server, which is commonly npm run build.
    • Adding Server to Settings: ValorIDE will add the server’s configuration to the valoride_mcp_settings.json file.

Testing and Troubleshooting​

  1. Test the Server: Once ValorIDE finishes the build process, test the server to make sure it works as expected. ValorIDE can assist you if you encounter any problems.
  2. MCP Inspector: You can use the MCP Inspector to test the server’s connection and functionality.

Best Practices​

  • Understand the Basics: While ValorIDE simplifies the process, it’s beneficial to have a basic understanding of the server’s code, the MCP protocol (), and how to configure the server. This allows for more effective troubleshooting and customization.
  • Clear Instructions: Provide clear and specific instructions to ValorIDE throughout the process.
  • Testing: Thoroughly test the server after installation and configuration to ensure it functions correctly.
  • Version Control: Use a version control system (like Git) to track changes to the server’s code.
  • Stay Updated: Keep your MCP servers updated to benefit from the latest features and security patches.