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

# MCP

> Add a local tool server Shape can call from chat.

MCP servers are tools Shape can call from chat. Add one in **Settings → Agents → MCP**, or keep a server in `mcp.json` if you want it in a file.

Servers you add in Settings stay in Shape. They are not written into `mcp.json`. A server in `mcp.json` is picked up on its own. You do not have to add it again in Settings.

Use MCP when the tool runs on your machine or at a URL you already have. Use a [plugin](/docs/customize/plugins) when the tool is an outside account.

## Add a server in Settings

Open **Settings → Agents → MCP** and choose **Add server**. Paste the server URL, or paste its JSON config. Shape shows the server, then connects. If the server asks you to sign in, finish that in the browser.

Remove a server you added there with **Remove**. That does not change `mcp.json`.

## Open the file

On the MCP page, choose **Open mcp.json**.

If the file does not exist yet, Shape creates it.

## Add a server

Use `command` when Shape should start the process. Use `url` if the server is already running.

```json theme={null}
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "example": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "some-mcp-server"]
    }
  }
}
```

Save the file.

Name the server something you will recognize in chat. The name is what you will refer to, not the package name.

## Try it

Send a message that needs the tool. If the server does not show up:

1. Save `mcp.json`.
2. Open **Settings → Agents → MCP** again. Shape reloads the file.
3. Open the same folder again.
4. Check that `command` is on your `PATH` when Shape starts. A tool that only works in your existing terminal session will fail here.

## The file on this machine

`mcp.json` lives in Shape’s data folder, not in the repo. Do not put API keys in it. Use env vars the server already reads.

## Remove a server

Delete the entry from `mcp.json` and save. Restart Shape if the tool still appears.


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