What MCP is, in three sentences
MCP is an open standard that connects AI applications to tools and data. Servers can run locally or provide a remote endpoint. This guide covers remote HTTP setup; client support and permissions determine what is available.
A remote endpoint might look like https://example-server.com/mcp. Use the exact address and authentication instructions provided by the server owner.
First, get an address
Get Raza SOR free after email verification. Its setup instructions include the connector address and commands. The paid raza-Developer beta is coming soon; join its waitlist for availability and pricing.
ChatGPT (web and desktop)
- In the left sidebar, click Plugins.
- Click the + button, top right beside the plugin search box.
- In the New Plugin form, give it a name, keep Connection on Server URL, and paste the MCP address.
- Choose the authentication method in the connector's setup instructions. Authentication depends on the server, not whether it is free or paid.
- Tick I understand and want to continue, then press Create.
- In a new chat, ask your question; ChatGPT calls the plugin when it needs it.
Claude (claude.ai)
- Open Settings, then Connectors.
- Choose Add custom connector.
- Paste the MCP address, name it, and confirm.
- Start a chat; Claude lists the connector's tools and uses them when your question needs them.
Claude Code (terminal)
One command, with your own name and address filled in:
claude mcp add --transport http your-name https://the-address/mcpRun this in the intended project: Claude Code uses local scope by default. Add --scope user only if you want it available across your projects. Remove it with claude mcp remove your-name.
Codex (terminal)
codex mcp add your-name --url https://the-address/mcpSame idea: one command, then the connector is available in every Codex session.
VS Code
- Open the Command Palette (Ctrl+Shift+P or Cmd+Shift+P).
- Run MCP: Add Server.
- Choose HTTP, paste the address, and name it.
- The server appears in your MCP list; agent mode can now call its tools.
Check it worked
- Look for the tools. Your AI tool lists the connector and the tools it offers (a search, a read, an action).
- Ask a question the server should answer. For example, ask Raza SOR: "how much of my workflow can be automated?" and it builds your step table with you.
- Expect one slow first reply. Servers sleep when unused; the first response can take 20 to 30 seconds, then it is fast.
FAQ
Is it safe to add an MCP server?+
Treat an MCP address like an app install: add servers only from people or companies you trust. A read-only connector can only answer questions from its own data. A connector with write tools can act, so your AI tool asks you before it runs those actions.
Which AI tools support MCP?+
ChatGPT (web and desktop), Claude on claude.ai, Claude Code, Codex, and VS Code all support MCP connectors over HTTP. Most other coding agents support it too, with a similar add command.
Where do I get an MCP address?+
Use the exact remote endpoint from the server owner; /mcp is only an example path. Get the Raza SOR address after email verification. The paid raza-Developer beta is coming soon; join its waitlist.
Does adding a connector cost anything?+
Raza SOR is free. The paid raza-Developer beta is coming soon; pricing will be shared with the waitlist. Your AI tool may have its own plan or usage costs.
What is the difference between an MCP connector and a GPT or extension?+
A GPT or extension lives inside one product. An MCP server is one address that works across ChatGPT, Claude, Codex, VS Code and other tools at the same time, and it can carry live data and real actions rather than a frozen prompt.
What to attach first
Start with the record: attach Raza SOR and ask it to count your own workflow; it can send me the sketch when you are done. Builders should read the raza-Developer guide next. Raza SOR is free: Get Raza SOR free. For the upcoming paid builder, join the raza-Developer waitlist.