Filesystem MCP Server (Official): Install & Setup

Install Filesystem in Claude Code

Claude Code

claude mcp add filesystem -- npx -y @modelcontextprotocol/server-filesystem

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

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "filesystem": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": [
        "-y",
        "@modelcontextprotocol/server-filesystem"
      ]
    }
  }
}

Frequently asked questions

What does the Filesystem MCP server do?

Secure file operations with configurable access controls.

Is the Filesystem MCP server free?

Yes, most likely. Open source and no paid account or API key is mentioned in the listing. Check the provider for current pricing.

Does Filesystem run locally or remotely?

Local. Runs on your machine (stdio). You install it with npx, uvx, Docker or from source.

How do I add Filesystem to Claude Code?

Run: claude mcp add filesystem -- npx -y @modelcontextprotocol/server-filesystem

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