MCP and connectors

MCP and connectors connect AutoClaw to external apps, data sources, and services, so an Agent can do more than answer questions: within the permissions you authorize, it can read information, call tools, and get work done.

Connectors vs. MCP

Connectors are built-in, visual ways to connect, and usually only require you to sign in or authorize. MCP servers are better for connecting self-built or third-party tools, and require a server address, authentication details, or runtime configuration. Either way, they end up as tools the Agent can call.

Set up a connector

1. On the home page, click "Skills & connectors" in the left sidebar to open the "Connectors" tab.
2. The "Connected" area shows the connectors that are available now. In "All", find the service you want and click "+" on the right side of its card.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to sign in, authorize, or configure a key.
4. Go back to the list and confirm the status is Connected, then run a read-only test in a conversation first, such as looking up a piece of public information.

Set up an MCP server

1. Open Settings → Tools & connections, go to Extension tools (MCP), and click Add tool.
2. Add a server and fill in its name, connection method, server address, and any required authentication settings.
3. After saving, check the connection status.
4. Test with minimum permissions. Once read operations work correctly, open up write access gradually.

Security tips

• Connect only trusted sources. Do not put keys, Tokens, or passwords in regular conversations or screenshots.
• Grant read-only and minimum-scope permissions first. For actions such as sending messages, changing data, or deleting files, keep manual confirmation in place.
• If a connection fails, check in order: your network, whether the authorization has expired, the server address, and the permission scope.
• Revoke authorization for connectors you no longer use, and revoke the keys on the original service as well.