vscode_mcp_task_extension

VSCode MCP Task Extension

A VSCode extension that provides an embedded Model Context Protocol (MCP) server, enabling AI agents to discover and execute VSCode tasks through standardized MCP tools.

Features

• Embedded MCP Server: Runs within the VSCode extension process
• Task Discovery: AI agents can discover all available VSCode tasks
• Task Execution: Execute build, test, and custom tasks via MCP tools
• Real-time Monitoring: Track running tasks and get execution results
• Comprehensive Logging: Detailed logs for debugging MCP interactions
• Status Feedback: Visual indicators and notifications for task operations

Installation & Setup

1. Install dependencies: npm install
2. Compile TypeScript: npx tsc --build
3. Press F5 to run the extension in a new Extension Development Host window
4. The MCP server will auto-start on port 3000 (configurable)

MCP Tools Available

The extension exposes these MCP tools for AI agents:

• list_tasks: Discover all available VSCode tasks in workspace
• execute_task: Run specific tasks by name
• get_running_tasks: Monitor currently executing tasks
• terminate_task: Stop running tasks
• get_task_details: Get detailed information about specific tasks

Commands

• MCP Task Server: Start - Start the embedded MCP server
• MCP Task Server: Stop - Stop the MCP server
• MCP Task Server: Restart - Restart the server
• MCP Task Server: Show Logs - View detailed logs

Configuration

The extension can be configured through VSCode settings:

{
    "mcpTaskServer.port": 3000,
    "mcpTaskServer.enableLogging": true,
    "mcpTaskServer.autoStart": true
}

## AI Agent Integration

AI agents can connect to the MCP server using streamable-http transport. The extension provides a standard MCP server that:

1. Uses HTTP-based MCP protocol for robust communication
2. Runs on configurable port (default: 3000)
3. Exposes VSCode tasks as MCP tools
4. Provides real-time task execution feedback

## Architecture

- **Extension Process**: Hosts the MCP server within VSCode
- **MCP Server**: Uses HTTP-based streamable transport for reliable MCP communication
- **Task Provider**: Interfaces with VSCode's task system
- **Logger**: Centralized logging with output channel integration
- **Status Bar**: Shows server status and MCP connection state