iterm-mcp

Overview

iterm-mcp is a well-implemented MCP server that bridges AI models with terminal interactions. It provides three key tools: writing to terminal, reading terminal output, and sending control characters. The server efficiently manages token usage by only providing relevant output to the model, making it ideal for REPL interactions and CLI assistance. Built with minimal dependencies, it's designed for easy integration with MCP clients like Claude Desktop.

Try asking AI

After installing, here are 5 things you can ask your AI assistant:

• write_to_terminal

  Writes to the active iTerm terminal, often used to run a command. Returns the number of lines of output.

  Try:Run the command 'ls -la'Try:Execute npm install
• read_terminal_output

  Reads the requested number of lines from the active iTerm terminal.

  Try:Show me the last 5 lines of outputTry:Read the terminal output
• send_control_character

  Sends a control character to the active iTerm terminal.

  Try:Send Ctrl+C to interruptTry:Send Ctrl+Z to pause

Comparable tools

Installation

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "iterm-mcp": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": [
        "-y",
        "iterm-mcp"
      ]
    }
  }
}

npx -y @smithery/cli install iterm-mcp --client claude

FAQ

Is iterm-mcp safe to use?

The server makes no attempt to evaluate command safety. Users are responsible for safe usage and should monitor activity to interrupt when necessary.

What iTerm version is required?

iTerm2 must be running. Node version 18 or greater is also required.

On Hacker News

Recent discussion from the developer community.

• Show HN: Iterm-Mcp – AI Terminal/REPL Control for iTerm2▲ 43💬 21
  Story by deathmonger5000 · 2025-01-30

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