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Troubleshooting Connection Issues with Hacker News API

Understanding Connection Problems

Connection issues with the Hacker News MCP server typically stem from a few common causes: network connectivity problems, incorrect server configuration, or issues with the Hacker News API itself. This guide will help you systematically diagnose and resolve these issues.

Verify Server Configuration

First, ensure your MCP server is properly configured in your client application. Check that the server path is correct and the server process can be launched. For Claude Desktop or other MCP clients, verify that your configuration file (typically claude_desktop_config.json) includes the correct entry for the Hacker News server.

The server entry should specify the correct command to launch the server. If you've installed it via npm, confirm the package is installed globally or that your configuration points to the correct local installation path.

Check Network Connectivity

The Hacker News MCP server requires internet access to communicate with the Hacker News API. Test your network connection by attempting to access https://hacker-news.firebaseio.com directly in your browser. If this endpoint is unreachable, the issue likely lies with your network configuration or firewall settings.

Corporate networks or VPNs sometimes block access to Firebase endpoints. Check with your network administrator if you're on a managed network, or temporarily disable your VPN to determine if it's causing the problem.

Examine Server Logs

Server logs provide valuable diagnostic information. Check your MCP client's log output for error messages when the connection fails. Common errors include timeout messages, which suggest network latency issues, or authentication errors, which indicate configuration problems.

Look for specific error codes or messages that can point to the root cause. Connection refused errors typically mean the server process isn't running, while timeout errors suggest network problems.

Test with Simple Queries

Once you've verified basic connectivity, test the server with a simple query like requesting top stories. This helps determine whether the issue is with the connection itself or with specific functionality. If simple queries work but complex ones fail, the problem may be related to rate limiting or API response handling rather than connectivity.

Rate Limiting Considerations

The Hacker News API has rate limits, though they're generally generous. If you're making many rapid requests, you might encounter temporary blocks. Wait a few minutes and try again. If problems persist, reduce query frequency.

Server Restart

Sometimes simply restarting your MCP client application resolves connection issues, particularly after updating the server or changing configuration. Close your client completely and reopen it to establish a fresh connection.

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