This guide will walk you through the process of installing and using MCP servers within your Claude Desktop app. While this method of installation may seem overly complicated, using this approach will make it easier to install and manage MCP servers in the long run.

Before You Start

• Install Claude.ai Desktop App
• Recommended: Install Visual Studio Code
• A GitHub account
• A Smithery.ai account

Part 1: Install Node.js

Step 1: Download the Node.js Installer

1. Open Safari or any web browser on your Mac
2. Go to the official Node.js website: https://nodejs.org
3. You'll see two big buttons - click the one that says "LTS" (which stands for Long Term Support - this is the most stable version)

Step 2: Run the Installer

1. Once the download completes, find the file in your Downloads folder
2. Double-click the downloaded file (it will have a name like "node-v14.x.x.pkg")
3. A window will open with the installation wizard
4. Click "Continue" at each step
5. When prompted, click "Install"
6. You might be asked for your Mac password - this is normal, just enter it