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

# Connect through MCP

> Understand how MCP extends Replit with trusted external tools and how compatible MCP clients can connect to the Replit MCP Server.

<div className="chat-mkt" role="img" aria-label="Connected server icon representing MCP connections" style={{ margin: "28px 0 42px", borderTop: 0, paddingTop: 0 }}>
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    >
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The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open standard for connecting AI products with tools and data sources. It is distinct from Replit's native integrations, but it can extend the tools available while you work in a Conversation.

## Choose the connection direction

* **Connect Replit to an external tool:** Add a curated or custom MCP server so Replit can use the tools it provides. Only connect servers you trust.
* **Use Replit from an MCP client:** Connect a compatible client to the Replit MCP Server to create, find, inspect, or update Replit Apps from that client.

MCP is distinct from native integrations and [Skills](/chat/agent-skills). Integrations provide supported service connections. Skills provide reusable instructions and supporting material. MCP extends available tools through the protocol.

## Follow the detailed setup

<section className="chat-mkt chat-workflow-grid has-visuals">
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    <span>
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    <div className="chat-card-title">Connect Replit through MCP</div>
    <p>Add a curated or custom MCP server for an external tool.</p>
    <div className="chat-card-link">Open the setup guide →</div>
  </a>

  <a className="chat-example has-visual" href="/platforms/mcp-server">
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    <div className="chat-card-title">Replit MCP Server</div>
    <p>Connect a compatible MCP client directly to Replit.</p>
    <div className="chat-card-link">Open the server guide →</div>
  </a>
</section>

With the Chat journey complete, return to [Conversations](/chat/conversations) to begin a task or explore the [Use cases catalog](/use-cases) for complete examples.