Using MCP servers in ChatGPT
By Sophie Filer · Updated 26 Oct 2026
ChatGPT does not run programs on your computer, so it can only use MCP servers that someone hosts at a URL. If a server only gives you an npx or uvx command, use Claude, Cursor or another desktop client for it instead.
Add a server
- Open ChatGPT Settings and find Apps & Connectors (the name has changed a few times).
- If there is no option to add your own, turn on Developer mode under Advanced settings.
- Create a new connector, give it a name and paste the server URL.
- Choose the sign-in method the server needs (OAuth or none) and finish the sign-in.
- In a new chat, enable the connector from the tools menu and ask something that needs it.
Custom connectors are limited to some plans and, on business plans, to what your admin allows. If you cannot see the option, that is usually why.
Servers on MCP Shelf that work in ChatGPT
| Server | URL |
|---|---|
| Context7 | https://mcp.context7.com/mcp |
| Exa | https://mcp.exa.ai/mcp |
| Notion | https://mcp.notion.com/mcp |
| Supabase | https://mcp.supabase.com/mcp |
| GitHub | https://api.githubcopilot.com/mcp/ |
ChatGPT compared with desktop clients
| ChatGPT | Claude Desktop, Claude Code, Cursor | |
|---|---|---|
| Remote servers (URL) | Yes | Yes |
| Local servers (npx, uvx, docker) | No | Yes |
| Where you add them | Settings → connectors | Config file or CLI |
Questions
Can I run a local MCP server with ChatGPT?
Not directly. You would need to host it yourself behind a public HTTPS URL. For most people, using that server in Claude or Cursor is simpler.
Is it safe to connect a remote server?
Whatever you send through it reaches the company running it. Stick to servers run by the vendor of the product (Notion, Supabase, GitHub) or ones you trust.