Model Context Protocol (MCP)
Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open standard that allows AI models to connect to external tools and data sources. Kognar Platform supports MCP servers, letting you extend what the AI can do without writing custom code.
What is an MCP server?
An MCP server is a program that exposes tools — functions the AI can call during a conversation. When connected, those tools become available to any AI model in Kognar, just like built-in agents.
Examples of what MCP servers can expose:
- Query a database
- Read or write files on your computer
- Call third-party APIs
- Interact with local development tools
Connecting an MCP server
- Open Settings (
Ctrl/Cmd+U) - Go to Agents & MCP > MCPs
- Click Add Server
- Fill in the configuration:
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | A friendly label for this server |
| Type | Local (runs a command on your machine) or Remote (connects to a URL) |
| Command / URL | For Local: the command to start the server (e.g. npx my-mcp-server). For Remote: the server URL |
| Environment variables | Optional key-value pairs passed to the server process |
| Auto-connect | Automatically connect this server when Kognar starts |
- Click Test to verify the connection works before saving
- Click Connect
Managing connections
From the MCP list in Settings, each server shows its status and has buttons to:
- Connect — Start the connection
- Disconnect — Stop the connection
- Reconnect — Disconnect and reconnect (useful after server updates)
The connection timeout is 60 seconds. If the server doesn't respond in time, the connection attempt fails with an error message.
Using MCP tools in conversations
Once connected, MCP server tools appear automatically in conversations. You don't need to do anything special — just chat normally and the AI will use the available tools when they're relevant.
Tool results appear as tool cards in the chat thread, showing:
- The tool name
- The result returned by the server
- Whether the tool is currently running or complete
Right panel quick access
The right panel (gear icon in the header) has an MCPs tab that shows all connected servers at a glance. You can connect or disconnect servers directly from there without opening Settings.
Troubleshooting
Server won't connect:
- Check that the command or URL is correct
- Make sure required dependencies are installed (e.g.,
node,npx) - Check the environment variables are set correctly
- Try clicking Test to see a detailed error message
Tools not appearing:
- Disconnect and reconnect the server
- Make sure the server is running and responding
Connection drops during a conversation:
- The server may have timed out or crashed
- Reconnect from the right panel MCPs tab and continue your conversation