build-mcpb

Package a local MCP server into an MCPB bundle with manifest and launch config.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/julianobarbosa/.claude --skill build-mcpb-julianobarbosa
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: build-mcpb
Source: https://github.com/julianobarbosa/.claude/tree/main/plugins/marketplaces/claude-plugins-official/plugins/mcp-server-dev/skills/build-mcpb
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/julianobarbosa/.claude --skill build-mcpb-julianobarbosa

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you distribute a local MCP server that must run on the user’s machine, without requiring the user to install Node, Python, or any build toolchain.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Packages MCP servers as MCPB bundles so the user installs a single file and the host launches your stdio MCP server from inside the bundle.
  • Defines a correct manifest.json including identity, runtime launch config, and install-time user configuration.
  • Supports local-only capabilities like reading/watching local files or controlling desktop apps, which are hard to do via remote servers.

Quick Start

Use the build-mcpb skill to package your MCP server into an MCPB file so it runs on the user’s machine without them installing any runtime.

Frequently Asked Questions about build-mcpb

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I distribute an MCP server so users don't need to install Node or Python?

Package the MCP server into an MCPB bundle containing a manifest.json with launch config and user_config, allowing the host to launch the stdio server directly without requiring users to install Node, Python, or any build toolchain.

What is an MCPB bundle and when do I need it for local MCP servers?

An MCPB bundle packages a local Model Context Protocol server into a single installable file. You need it when your server must access local filesystem resources, desktop apps, localhost services, or OS-level capabilities rather than only cloud APIs.

How do I generate a manifest.json for an MCP server package?

Generate a manifest.json defining identity, runtime launch config via server.mcp_config, and install-time user_config. Use ${__dirname} substitutions to ensure bundle-relative paths for local file access.

Can I package an MCP server that reads local files and controls desktop apps?

Yes, you can package MCP servers supporting local-only capabilities like reading or watching local files and controlling desktop apps. The MCPB bundle uses stdio transport to launch the server directly on the user's machine.

Does stdio transport work with MCPB bundles for local server distribution?

Yes, stdio transport works with MCPB bundles. The manifest generates a stdio launch command via server.mcp_config, allowing the host application to run your local MCP server from inside the bundle.