> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.stepsai.co/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Adding MCPs

> Complete guide to connecting and exploring MCP servers in AIDE

## Overview

Adding MCP servers to AIDE extends your AI assistant's capabilities by connecting to external data sources, tools, and services. This guide will walk you through the process of discovering, connecting, and configuring MCP servers to enhance your AIDE experience.

## Key Benefits

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Extended Capabilities" icon="zap">
    Add new tools and data sources to your AI assistant
  </Card>

  <Card title="Real-time Data" icon="refresh-cw">
    Access current information from various external sources
  </Card>

  <Card title="Tool Integration" icon="wrench">
    Use external tools and services through standardized interfaces
  </Card>

  <Card title="Custom Solutions" icon="puzzle">
    Create custom integrations for your specific needs
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Getting Started

<Steps>
  <Step title="Access MCP Settings">
    Navigate to the MCP section in your AIDE dashboard
  </Step>

  <Step title="Discover Servers">
    Browse available MCP servers or add custom ones
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure Connection">
    Set up connection parameters and security settings
  </Step>

  <Step title="Test Integration">
    Verify the connection and test functionality
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Video Tutorial

<div className="relative aspect-video my-8">
  <img src="https://mintcdn.com/stepsai/bk8ntUWjoqlJB9Px/logo/light.svg?fit=max&auto=format&n=bk8ntUWjoqlJB9Px&q=85&s=a3b792588a8a597e6307250f257a3ef0" alt="Steps AI Logo" className="w-full aspect-video rounded-xl bg-white dark:bg-gray-900 object-contain p-8" width="708" height="404" data-path="logo/light.svg" />
</div>

## Discovering MCP Servers

### Community MCP Servers

Explore MCP servers created by the community:

* **Development Tools**: Code editors, IDEs, and development utilities
* **Business Applications**: CRM systems, project management tools
* **Data Sources**: APIs, data warehouses, and analytics platforms
* **Communication Tools**: Email, messaging, and collaboration platforms

### Custom MCP Servers

Create your own MCP servers for specific needs:

* **Internal Systems**: Connect to your company's internal tools and databases
* **Specialized Tools**: Create servers for domain-specific applications
* **Legacy Systems**: Bridge to older systems that don't have modern APIs
* **Proprietary Data**: Access your own custom data sources and tools

## FAQ

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How do I know which MCP servers to connect?">
    Start with built-in servers that match your needs, then explore community servers for additional functionality. Consider your workflow and data requirements.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I disconnect MCP servers later?">
    Yes! You can disconnect MCP servers at any time through the MCP configuration section. This will stop all access to that server.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What if an MCP server stops working?">
    AIDE will gracefully handle MCP server failures. You'll receive notifications about connection issues, and you can troubleshoot or disconnect problematic servers.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How secure are MCP connections?">
    MCP connections use secure protocols and encryption. You control permissions and access levels for each server, ensuring your data remains secure.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I create my own MCP server?">
    Absolutely! You can create custom MCP servers to connect to your own tools and data sources. The MCP protocol is open and well-documented.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do MCP servers affect AI performance?">
    MCP servers can enhance AI responses by providing additional context and tools, but may add some latency. Monitor performance and optimize as needed.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Troubleshooting

| Issue                 | Solution                                                | Prevention                                         |
| --------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------- |
| **Connection Failed** | Check server URL, credentials, and network connectivity | Verify server details before connecting            |
| **Permission Denied** | Review and adjust MCP server permissions                | Set appropriate access levels during configuration |

<Info>
  **Regular Maintenance**: Periodically review and update your MCP server connections
</Info>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup cols={1}>
  <Card title="Explore MCP Ecosystem" icon="globe" href="https://modelcontextprotocol.io">
    Discover more MCP servers and learn about the protocol
  </Card>
</CardGroup>