Understanding Connection Problems

When your Hacker News MCP server fails to connect or stops responding, the issue typically stems from one of several common causes. This guide will help you diagnose and resolve connection problems quickly so you can get back to accessing Hacker News content.

Verify Server Status

First, confirm that the MCP server process is actually running. Check your application's server management interface or process list to ensure the Hacker News server hasn't crashed or been accidentally stopped. If the server isn't running, restart it through your MCP client's configuration interface.

Check Network Connectivity

The server requires internet access to communicate with Hacker News APIs. Test your network connection by visiting other websites or services. If you're behind a corporate firewall or using a VPN, these may block the API endpoints the server needs to reach. Try temporarily disabling your VPN or proxy to determine if they're interfering with connectivity.

API Rate Limiting

Hacker News, like most services, implements rate limiting to prevent abuse. If you've made many requests in a short period, you may be temporarily blocked. Wait 10-15 minutes before attempting additional requests. Consider spacing out your queries if you're performing bulk data retrieval or frequent polling.

Timeout Issues

Large comment threads or complex queries can occasionally time out, especially during periods of high API load. If specific requests consistently fail while others succeed, try breaking down complex queries into smaller requests. For example, retrieve a story's metadata first, then fetch its comments separately.

Configuration Errors

Review your MCP server configuration to ensure all settings are correct. While the Hacker News server doesn't require API keys, incorrect endpoint configurations or client settings can prevent proper operation. Consult your configuration file and verify it matches the documentation's recommended settings.

Server Updates

Occasionally, Hacker News may modify their API structure or endpoints. Ensure you're running the latest version of the MCP server, as updates often include fixes for API changes. Check the server's repository or update channel for recent releases.

Diagnostic Steps

When troubleshooting, try requesting a simple top story list first. If this basic query succeeds, your connection is working and any issues are likely query-specific. If even basic requests fail, focus on the network and server status issues described above.

If problems persist after trying these solutions, check the server logs for specific error messages that can provide additional diagnostic information.