Configure MCP server
Add the server to your settings.json (project or user level)
Server connects
STDIO launches a local process; HTTP connects to a remote endpoint
Tools become available
Claude Code discovers the server's tools and can use them in conversations
Claude Code calls tools
When relevant, Claude Code automatically uses MCP tools to complete your task
Configure MCP server
Add the server to your settings.json (project or user level)
Server connects
STDIO launches a local process; HTTP connects to a remote endpoint
Tools become available
Claude Code discovers the server's tools and can use them in conversations
Claude Code calls tools
When relevant, Claude Code automatically uses MCP tools to complete your task
What is MCP?
Step 1: Find or build a server
Browse the MCP server directory or build a custom adapter for your internal tools
Step 2: Add to configuration
Add the server URL or command to .claude/settings.json (project) or ~/.claude.json (personal)
Step 3: Restart Claude Code
MCP changes take effect after restarting. HTTP servers with OAuth will trigger a browser login
Step 4: Use naturally
Just describe what you need. Claude Code automatically selects the right MCP tools for the job
| Transport | How it works | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| STDIO | STDIO | Runs as a local process on your machine. Communicates via stdin/stdout. | Database connections, local tools, file operations, custom scripts |
| HTTP | HTTP | Connects to a remote server via URL. Often uses OAuth for authentication. | Cloud services (Notion, GitHub, Slack), SaaS integrations, shared team tools |