MCP guides
Everything you need to understand the Model Context Protocol and get more out of the servers in this directory.
What Is the Model Context Protocol (MCP)?
A plain-English explanation of MCP — the open standard that connects AI assistants to real tools and data — plus how clients, servers and transports fit together.
Read guide →How to Install an MCP Server (Step by Step)
Install and configure any MCP server in minutes: find the server, add its config to your client, restart and verify the tools are available.
Read guide →Claude Desktop MCP Setup (Config File + Example)
Add MCP servers to Claude Desktop: where the config file lives, how to edit it, and a working filesystem example.
Read guide →Cursor MCP Setup — Add Servers to the Cursor IDE
Configure MCP servers in Cursor using the mcp.json file or the settings UI, with a working example and troubleshooting tips.
Read guide →Best MCP Servers to Install First (2026)
A practical shortlist of the most useful MCP servers across files, code, search, browsers, databases and productivity — with what each one is good for.
Read guide →MCP vs REST API: What's the Difference?
MCP and REST APIs solve different problems. Learn when a plain API is enough, when MCP adds value, and how the two work together.
Read guide →MCP Security: Risks and Best Practices
Understand the main security risks of MCP servers — excessive permissions, prompt injection, secrets and remote servers — and how to reduce them.
Read guide →How to Connect MCP Servers to ChatGPT (Connectors & Developer Mode)
ChatGPT can use MCP servers through connectors and Developer mode. Learn how ChatGPT's MCP support works, how to add a custom connector, and which servers work best.
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