How do I install the bash mcp server?

Use a recorded configuration for your client, replace example credential values and paths, and verify the documented runtime. Restart or reconnect the client, then inspect the available tools.

What credentials does it need?

It reads `BASH_MCP_MAX_OUTPUT_SIZE`, `BASH_MCP_TEMP_DIR` from the environment. Store these in your client's env block or a secrets manager — never commit them to a repository — and grant the narrowest scope that still covers your use case.

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Bash MCP Server

Simple bash command execution MCP server for Claude

Local serverstdio

What is the Bash MCP Server?

Simple bash command execution MCP server for Claude.

What Bash MCP does

A simple MCP (Model Context Protocol) server that enables Claude to execute shell commands without permission prompts.

Key capabilities

Execute any shell command without permission prompts
Run long-running processes in the background
Manage background processes (list, kill)
Capture stdout and stderr
Set working directory for commands
Configure timeout for commands
Automatic cleanup on server shutdown
NEW — Automatic output truncation with full output saved to temp files

Requirements

Node.js >= 16.0.0 - npm or npx

Practical notes

Maintained by tinywind.

More MCP options

Compare MCP servers by category, or browse hosted MCP servers if you prefer an endpoint over a local process.

Maintainer setup documentation.

How to install the Bash MCP Server

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "bash": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["bash-mcp"],
      "env": {
        "BASH_MCP_MAX_OUTPUT_SIZE": "102400",
        "BASH_MCP_TEMP_DIR": "/tmp/bash-mcp-outputs"
      }
    }
  }
}

Configuration as documented by the project. Restart the client after saving.

Configuration

Node.js >= 16.0.0 - npm or npx

Variable	Description	Required
BASH_MCP_MAX_OUTPUT_SIZE	Configuration value read at startup.	Optional
BASH_MCP_TEMP_DIR	Filesystem location the server is allowed to use.	Optional

Frequently asked questions

Simple bash command execution MCP server for Claude Confirm the tools offered by your installed version in the connected client. Tool availability and permissions depend on the server and account configuration.