Where does Cursor store MCP servers?

In a mcp.json file: ~/.cursor/mcp.json for all projects, or .cursor/mcp.json in a project root.

Do I need to restart Cursor after adding a server?

Usually no — Cursor picks up changes when you toggle the server in Settings → MCP. If it does not appear, reload the window (Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+P → Reload Window).

Can I run more than one MCP server at once?

Yes. Add each as its own key under mcpServers; Cursor runs them in parallel and exposes all their tools in chat.

Why is there a red dot next to my server?

The server failed to start — usually invalid JSON, a missing command, or a Node/PATH issue.

How to Add an MCP Server in Cursor

Cursor loads MCP servers from a mcp.json file — ~/.cursor/mcp.json for every project, or .cursor/mcp.json for a single project. Add your server under the mcpServers key, save, then enable it in Cursor Settings → MCP. It connects in seconds.

MCP servers let Cursor use outside tools without leaving the editor. Here is the exact config file, a working example, and how to switch it on.