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Model Context Protocol

Filesystem

Official

Secure local file and directory operations for AI agents.

Filesystem gives an AI client a bounded workspace on your machine. You choose the directories it can access, then the server exposes structured file operations so the agent can inspect and change real project files without receiving unrestricted access to the rest of the system.

ActivestdioAuth: None14 tools
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GitHubWebsiteSetup guide

Step-by-step walkthrough: Set up Filesystem MCP in Cursor safely.

Tools

Selected capabilities exposed to a connected AI client.

14 tools
read_file

Read file contents from the permitted workspace or repository.

read_multiple_files

A callable capability exposed by this MCP server.

write_file

Write content to a file inside the permitted workspace.

list_directory

Inspect or manage directories inside the approved workspace.

move_file

A callable capability exposed by this MCP server.

search_files

Search the connected source for relevant records or content.

Bowora highlights 6 of 14 tools. The source repository contains the complete, current tool schema.

Setup and access

Check the connection method, access level, and compatible clients before enabling the server.

npx -y @modelcontextprotocol/server-filesystem /path/to/allowed/directory
  1. 1Choose the project directories the agent may access.
  2. 2Add the server command and approved paths to your MCP client.
  3. 3Confirm the agent can only see the intended workspace before allowing writes.
Transport
stdio
Connection
Local stdio MCP
Authentication
No account authentication
Access
Read and write only within the approved directories
Registry status
Active
Last updated
Jun 28, 2026

Compatible clients

ClaudeCodexCursorVS Code

Connects to local files and directories selected by the user. Use the least-privileged credentials and access scope that support your workflow.

Runs locally and accesses only the paths you explicitly pass to the server. Do not add home directories or secrets folders unless required.

Availability: Open source; no hosted account is required.

Good for

  • Review and update files inside an approved project folder
  • Search a directory tree and organize files
  • Give a local agent persistent access to working documents

FAQ

What does Filesystem MCP do?
Filesystem gives an AI client a bounded workspace on your machine. You choose the directories it can access, then the server exposes structured file operations so the agent can inspect and change real project files without receiving unrestricted access to the rest of the system.
How do I connect Filesystem MCP?
Add it to your MCP client over stdio using: npx -y @modelcontextprotocol/server-filesystem /path/to/allowed/directory
Does Filesystem MCP require authentication?
No account authentication
Any security caveats for Filesystem?
This server can read and write files inside the paths you approve. Start with one project directory and avoid granting access to credentials or home folders.
Where is the Filesystem source?
Tools highlighted here include read_file, read_multiple_files, write_file, list_directory (14 total). Source and updates: https://github.com/modelcontextprotocol/servers/tree/main/src/filesystem