DataZen MCP
A desktop database client with an MCP server: an agent reads the schema, runs queries and triggers workflows over stdio.
- 118 ★ on the repository
- Last commit
- GPL-3.0
Broad access
Why this level
- The agent runs SQL against the databases the app is connected to and, on connections without a read-only mode, can change and delete data.
- The app stores database credentials and exposes access to them through its server.
Install
- Works in
Manual install
Install DataZen from the Download page, set up a read-only connection, connect the MCP server in `--mcp-stdio` mode and check it with a `list_databases` call.
Access and checks
How we reviewBroad accessThe tool can change data, run commands or handle secrets.
- The agent runs SQL against the databases the app is connected to and, on connections without a read-only mode, can change and delete data.
- The app stores database credentials and exposes access to them through its server.
This is third-party code. Review the repository files before installing.
What it does
DataZen is an open-source desktop app for PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, Redis and other databases, with 17 drivers in all. It has a SQL editor, ER diagrams, schema diff, data transfer and sync, ops dashboards and YAML workflows. For agents the app exposes an MCP server with the tools `list_databases`, `list_tables`, `search_tables`, `describe_table`, `get_schema`, `query`, `explain_query`, `list_workflows` and `run_workflow`. Schema, connections and query history are available as resources under `datazen://` URIs. The server can also run without a window: the `--mcp-stdio` mode starts the same tools for agent pipelines and CI. At the same time DataZen acts as an MCP client and connects external servers to its own AI chat. Connections are protected by encryption, a read-only mode and a SQL safety gate before execution.
Who it is for. Developers and analysts who work with several databases in one app and want to give their agent access to the schema and queries.
Good fit when
- An agent needs the schema of a working database to write a query without guessing at tables.
- A query plan needs analysis: the `explain_query` tool returns it to the agent.
- A backup or sync scenario is started by a pipeline through `run_workflow`.
- A database connection is already set up in DataZen and you do not want a second client.
Not a fit when
- An agent must not touch a production database and there is no separate read-only connection.
- You need a lightweight MCP server without a desktop app.
- The GPL-3.0 license does not fit your project.
Example request
Show the schema of the orders database, find the payment-related tables and run a query for yesterday's order count.MCP
- Transport
- stdio
- Authentication
- not required
Limitations
The server runs together with the desktop app: install it from the macOS, Windows or Linux installer first, then set up database connections. The README gives no ready commands for Claude Code or Cursor, and the launch path for the `--mcp-stdio` mode depends on where the app is installed. The agent gets the rights of the connection account: a safe setup is a connection flagged read-only. Published installers ship the complete editor, while a source build compiles the open-source part. The license is GPL-3.0.
How to disable. Remove the DataZen entry from the MCP client configuration and stop the `--mcp-stdio` process. Database connections are deleted in the app itself.
FAQ
Which MCP tools does DataZen expose?
`list_databases`, `list_tables`, `search_tables`, `describe_table`, `get_schema`, `query`, `explain_query`, `list_workflows` and `run_workflow`.
Can the server run without the app window?
Yes. The `--mcp-stdio` mode starts the same tools with no window and is meant for agent pipelines and CI.
How do I stop an agent from damaging data?
Create a read-only connection in DataZen and keep the SQL safety gate on. The agent only gets the rights of that connection.
Which databases does DataZen support?
17 drivers, including PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite and Redis. The list can be extended through the Driver API.
Can DataZen connect external MCP servers?
Yes. As an MCP client it connects external servers and adds their tools and context to its own AI chat.
Discussion
No questions or reviews yet.
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README in short
The README presents DataZen as one app for the whole database loop: understand the schema, fix, move data, monitor and automate. The agents section describes the MCP server and client roles and safe defaults.