Understanding Connection Problems

Connection issues with the Hacker News MCP server typically stem from a few common causes. This guide will help you identify and resolve the most frequent problems so you can get back to accessing Hacker News content quickly.

Initial Configuration Check

Before troubleshooting deeper issues, verify that your MCP server is properly configured. Ensure the server is listed in your MCP settings file (typically located in your AI assistant's configuration directory). The configuration should include the correct server path and any required parameters. If you've recently updated your system or AI assistant, you may need to restart the application for configuration changes to take effect.

Network and API Accessibility

The Hacker News MCP server relies on the Hacker News API to retrieve data. If you're experiencing connection failures, first check your internet connectivity by accessing other websites or services. If your network is functioning normally but the server still fails, the Hacker News API itself may be experiencing downtime or rate limiting.

Hacker News occasionally experiences high traffic or maintenance periods. Wait a few minutes and try your request again. If problems persist beyond 15-20 minutes, check Hacker News status through other channels or try accessing the website directly in your browser to confirm the service is operational.

Rate Limiting and Request Throttling

The Hacker News API has rate limits to ensure fair usage across all users. If you're making many requests in quick succession, you may hit these limits, causing temporary connection failures. Space out your requests and avoid making rapid-fire queries. If you're building an application that requires frequent data access, implement appropriate delays between requests.

Server Process Issues

Sometimes the MCP server process itself may encounter problems. Restart your AI assistant application completely—a full restart often resolves lingering connection issues. If you're technically inclined and have access to server logs, check them for error messages that might indicate specific problems like missing dependencies or permission issues.

Firewall and Security Software

Corporate firewalls, VPNs, or security software can interfere with API connections. If you're on a restricted network, verify that outbound connections to Hacker News API endpoints are permitted. Try temporarily disabling security software (if safe to do so) to determine if it's blocking the connection.

When Problems Persist

If none of these solutions resolve your connection issues, the problem may be with your specific MCP server installation. Check for updates to the server software, review installation documentation for any missed setup steps, and ensure all dependencies are correctly installed. In rare cases, reinstalling the server may be necessary.