Use workspace-level .vscode/mcp.json for project-specific servers
Use user settings for servers you want everywhere
Never commit tokens — use environment variables
Raw content
Copy into your project — e.g. .instructions.md, .agent.md, or SKILL.md
## Overview
MCP (Model Context Protocol) servers give Copilot agents access to external tools and data sources. This recipe walks you through setting one up.
## Steps
### 1. Choose an MCP server
Popular options:
- `@github/github-mcp-server` — GitHub API access
- `@playwright/mcp` — Browser automation
- `@anthropic/mcp-server-filesystem` — Local file access
### 2. Add to VS Code settings
Open `.vscode/mcp.json` or your user settings:
```json
{
"mcp": {
"servers": {
"github": {
"command": "npx",
"args": ["-y", "@github/github-mcp-server"],
"env": {
"GITHUB_PERSONAL_ACCESS_TOKEN": ""
}
}
}
}
}
```
### 3. Verify the connection
1. Open Copilot Chat
2. Type `@agent` and check if the MCP tools are listed
3. Try a command like "list my open PRs"
## Tips
- Use workspace-level `.vscode/mcp.json` for project-specific servers
- Use user settings for servers you want everywhere
- Never commit tokens — use environment variables