---
title: "Add a custom MCP server"
description: "Connect a custom or local MCP server that is not available through OpenWork Connect"
---

<Note>
**Local workspace setup.** Custom MCP servers are supported without an OpenWork Cloud account, so this path stays free and local to the current workspace. For a connection managed and assigned by your organization, use [OpenWork Cloud Connectors](/cloud/share-with-your-team/shared-mcp-connections).
</Note>

Use this guide only when you need a custom or local MCP server that is not available through OpenWork Connect.

For Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, Slack, Notion, Linear, and other
managed services, follow [Connect your services](/start-here/connect-your-stack/connect-services).

Connecting a custom app with OpenWork takes four clicks.

- In the desktop app, open `Settings` \> `Library`, expand `Advanced settings`, then click `Add workspace MCP`

<Frame>
  ![Library page with Advanced settings expanded, showing the Add workspace MCP button](/images/library-advanced-settings.png)
</Frame>

The MCP is added to the current workspace.

<Frame>
  ![Add workspace MCP dialog with app name, server URL, and OAuth options](/images/library-add-mcp-modal.png)

  Indicate whether the server requires OAuth.
</Frame>

This setup is intended for servers that support dynamic OAuth client registration.

<Frame>
  ![OAuth approval page for MCP server](/images/mcp-oauth-approval-page.png)
</Frame>

Complete the provider's OAuth approval flow in your browser. It should redirect
back to OpenWork. If a custom MCP needs behavior OpenWork does not support,
[open an issue](https://github.com/different-ai/openwork/issues/).

### Troubleshooting

Some MCP servers do not support dynamic client registration. If the server gives you a pre-registered OAuth client ID and client secret, add it through `Add workspace MCP` > `OAuth on this device`.

For an advanced local Slack setup, follow
[Connect Slack as a custom MCP](/start-here/connect-your-stack/connect-slack-mcp).

<Frame>
  ![Error when MCP server does not support dynamic client registration](/images/mcp-dynamic-registration-error.png)
</Frame>