> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://documentation.connexica.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://documentation.connexica.com/cxair-ai/connecting-an-external-mcp-client.md).

# 08. Connecting an External MCP Client

## Requirements

* An MCP client that supports streamable HTTP.
* Network and TLS access to the CXAIR external URL.
* An approved CXAIR bearer token.
* Permission to the indexes and reports you intend to access.

## Generic client configuration

```json
{
  "servers": {
    "cxair": {
      "transport": "streamable-http",
      "url": "https://your-cxair-host.example/cxair/mcp",
      "headers": {
        "Authorization": "Bearer YOUR_TOKEN"
      }
    }
  }
}
```

Configuration names differ between MCP clients. Use the client's documented syntax while retaining the URL and `Authorization` header semantics shown above.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Protect credentials.** Use the client's secret store or environment-variable facility where available. Do not place real bearer tokens in shared files, screenshots, prompts or support bundles.
{% endhint %}

## Test the connection

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Connect the MCP client

Connect the MCP client to the external `/mcp` endpoint.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### List the server's tools

List the server's tools.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Call `get_capabilities`

Call `get_capabilities`.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Find indexes

Call `find_indexes` with a non-sensitive index name you are permitted to use.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Run a small query

Run a small query and confirm its results directly in CXAIR.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

External clients should not use `/mcp/cxair`. That endpoint is designed for authenticated requests originating from a live CXAIR session.