mcp-server-xlwings
Excel automation MCP server. Works with DRM-protected files too.
Overview
mcp-server-xlwings is an MCP (Model Context Protocol) server powered by xlwings COM automation. It communicates directly with running Excel processes, enabling manipulation of even DRM-protected enterprise documents.
It supports real-time formula calculation, VBA macro execution, and reading user selections — capabilities impossible with file-based libraries like openpyxl or pandas.
Install with a single command: uvx mcp-server-xlwings
Why xlwings?
What openpyxl/pandas cannot do:
- Access DRM/encrypted enterprise Excel files
- Real-time interaction with running Excel
- Execute VBA macros and retrieve return values
- Read the user's current selection
- Auto-detect active workbook (no file path needed)
- Live formula calculation results and forced recalculation
11 Tools
get_active_workbook Active workbook info & selection
manage_workbooks Open, save, close, recalculate workbooks
read_data Read ranges, handle merged cells
write_data Write cell/range data and formulas
manage_sheets Manage sheets, insert/delete rows & columns
find_replace Find and replace text
format_range Apply formatting (colors, borders, etc.)
run_macro Execute VBA macros
get_formulas Retrieve formulas in a range
get_cell_styles Get cell style information
get_objects List charts, images, and shapes
Supported Editors
- Claude Desktop
- Claude Code
- VS Code (Roo Code)
- Cursor
- Windsurf
- Continue