Brave Search MCP Server: Install & Setup

Install Brave Search in Claude Code

Remote URL

Claude Code

claude mcp add --transport http brave-brave-search https://server.smithery.ai/brave/mcp

mcp.json (Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code, Windsurf)

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "brave-brave-search": {
      "url": "https://server.smithery.ai/brave/mcp"
    }
  }
}

npm

Claude Code

claude mcp add brave-brave-search -e BRAVE_API_KEY=... -- npx -y @brave/brave-search-mcp-server

mcp.json (Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code, Windsurf)

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "brave-brave-search": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": [
        "-y",
        "@brave/brave-search-mcp-server"
      ],
      "env": {
        "BRAVE_API_KEY": "..."
      }
    }
  }
}

Replace each ... with your own value.

Frequently asked questions

What does the Brave Search MCP server do?

Web search using Brave's Search API.

Is the Brave Search MCP server free?

The server is free, but you will likely need an account. The server itself is free, but it connects to a service that needs an account or API key, which may have paid tiers. Check the provider for current pricing.

Does Brave Search run locally or remotely?

Local + Remote. Can run locally or be used as a hosted remote server.

How do I add Brave Search to Claude Code?

Run: claude mcp add --transport http brave-brave-search https://server.smithery.ai/brave/mcp

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