Browse GitHub Repositories with AI: A Guide to GitHub Repo MCP

Want to supercharge your AI assistant? The GitHub Repo MCP (Model Context Protocol) server lets your AI tools browse GitHub repositories, explore code, and understand projects like never before. This guide shows how to install and use this powerful tool! Discover how GitHub Repo MCP can help improve your AI workflows.

What is GitHub Repo MCP and Why Should You Use It?

GitHub Repo MCP is an open-source server that connects your AI assistant to GitHub. It enables exploring, understanding, and interacting with codebases right from your AI interface.

• Seamless integration: Works with tools like Cursor, Windsurf, and Claude Desktop.
• Easy code exploration: Browse files, directories, and code content.
• Boost your AI: Provides AI assistants with real-world project context.

Get Started with GitHub Repo MCP

Ready to set up your GitHub Repo MCP server? Here's what you need:

Prerequisites

Make sure you have these installed:

• Node.js 18+
• npm or yarn

Step-by-Step Installation

Choose your preferred installation method:

Via NPX (Cross-Platform)

Use NPX for a quick setup. Open your terminal and run:

npx -y github-repo-mcp

Via Smithery (For Claude Desktop)

Automate installation with Smithery. Run this command:

npx -y @smithery/cli install @Ryan0204/github-repo-mcp --client claude

Wait a few seconds, and refresh if it doesn’t register immediately.

Configure for Higher Rate Limits

GitHub API limits unauthenticated requests. For extensive use, you can set up a GitHub token. This process ensures a smoother GitHub Repo MCP experience.

1. Create a token: Go to your GitHub settings
2. Set as environment variable: Add it to the mcp.json file:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "github-repo-mcp": {
      "command": "...",
      "args": [...],
      "env": {
        "GITHUB_TOKEN": "Your_Github_Token"
      },
      "enabled": true
    }
  }
}

Unleash the Power: GitHub Repo MCP Features

Explore the core functionalities of GitHub Repo MCP.

1. Browse Repository Root

getRepoAllDirectories lists all files and directories.

• Parameter: repoUrl (e.g., "https://github.com/owner/repo")
• Example: Show me the contents of the repository at https://github.com/Ryan0204/github-repo-mcp

2. Explore Specific Directories

getRepoDirectories lists content of a specific folder.

• Parameters: repoUrl, path (e.g., "src")
• Example: What files are in the src directory of https://github.com/Ryan0204/github-repo-mcp?

3. View File Content

getRepoFile retrieves and displays a file.

• Parameters: repoUrl, path (e.g., "src/index.js")
• Example: Show me the README.md file from https://github.com/Ryan0204/github-repo-mcp

Important Limitations

Keep these limitations in mind while using GitHub Repo MCP:

• Rate Limiting: Unauthenticated requests have low limits (60 requests/hour). Authentication solves this.
• Private Repositories: Public repos only, unless you provide a token with access.
• Binary & Large Files: Binary files and very large files may not display correctly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Encountering problems? Here are some solutions:

• Rate Limit Exceeded: Set up a GitHub token in the configuration.
• Command Not Found: Ensure the package is installed globally.
• Connection Errors: Check your internet and GitHub API status.

If issues persist, consult the output logs or raise a GitHub issue.

Maximize Your AI's Understanding with GitHub Repo MCP

GitHub Repo MCP brings code exploration to your AI assistant, making development and research more productive. Set it up today and start exploring repositories with ease!