How to Add MCP Servers to Claude Desktop

Claude Desktop has built-in support for MCP servers. Here's how to add them.

1. Install the MCP server you want using its install command (usually via npx, pip, or npm).

2. Open Claude Desktop settings, find the Developer tab.

3. Edit the `claude_desktop_config.json` file. Add the server configuration under the `mcpServers` key.

4. Restart Claude Desktop. You should see a new icon indicating MCP tools are available.

5. Start using the tools! You'll see available functions listed in the chat interface.

Common issues: If the server doesn't appear, check the config file JSON syntax. Make sure the install command is correct. Some servers need environment variables (like API keys) — these go in the `env` field of the config.

Most servers work out of the box. If you're stuck, check the server's GitHub page for specific configuration instructions.