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Windsurf

TL;DR

Windsurf is Codeium's AI-first IDE, released in November 2024. It pioneered 'agentic IDE' UX with Cascade, a persistent agent that edits code across files, runs commands, and uses MCP servers. Windsurf was acquired by Google in 2025 but continues to ship as a standalone product.

In depth

Windsurf is Codeium's take on the AI coding IDE. It's closer in spirit to Cursor than to VS Code + extensions: Cascade (the core agent) has persistent memory across your session, can edit multiple files, execute shell commands, and invoke MCP tools. The UX emphasizes long autonomous sessions over quick autocomplete.

Cascade is conversational-first but agent-backed. You describe a feature; Cascade plans, edits, and tests. MCP integration lets Cascade reach outside the editor — open GitHub PRs, query databases, trigger deploys — turning the IDE into a full development cockpit.

Windsurf supports MCP via per-workspace and global configs similar to Cursor. It was one of the early MCP adopters in late 2024 and continues to add features: sampling support, richer progress UX, multi-server orchestration.

Google acquired key parts of Codeium (the Windsurf product team) in 2025 to bolster Gemini-powered developer tools. The standalone Windsurf IDE continues to operate and supports multiple LLM backends, not just Gemini.

Examples

  • 1
    Cascade refactoring an authentication flow across 15 files
  • 2
    Windsurf querying a Postgres MCP to validate a migration
  • 3
    Cascade running `npm test` and fixing failing tests in a loop
  • 4
    Multi-model workflow: Claude for writing, GPT-4 for debugging, in one session
  • 5
    Windsurf using a custom internal MCP for company-specific APIs

What it's NOT

  • ✗Windsurf is NOT only Gemini — supports Claude, GPT, and open models via Codeium's routing.
  • ✗Windsurf is NOT discontinued — despite the Google acquisition, the IDE continues to ship.
  • ✗Cascade is NOT just autocomplete — it's a full agent with planning and multi-file editing.
  • ✗Windsurf is NOT a VS Code extension — it's a standalone IDE (like Cursor).

Related terms

MCP HostCursorClaude CodeModel Context Protocol (MCP)AI Agent

See also

  • Windsurf Docs

Frequently asked questions

Is Windsurf free?

There's a free tier with limits. Pro plan unlocks advanced models and higher usage caps.

Does Windsurf support MCP?

Yes — MCP integration has been a core feature since late 2024.

Is it still under active development?

Yes — despite Google's acquisition of the team, the Windsurf IDE continues shipping updates.

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