Cardinal Desktop Application
Connectors
HTTP MCP Server
HTTP MCP Server

HTTP MCP Server

Connect Cardinal Desktop Application to a custom HTTP MCP (Model Context Protocol) server for extended functionality.

Overview

HTTP MCP Server allows you to connect to custom Model Context Protocol servers over HTTP. With the HTTP MCP Server connector, your AI agents can:

  • Access custom tools and resources from your MCP server
  • Extend agent capabilities with domain-specific functionality
  • Integrate external services through MCP protocol
  • Query custom data sources via HTTP endpoints
  • Leverage custom workflows defined in your MCP server

Connection Details

FieldDescription
NameA unique identifier for this MCP server (e.g., my-mcp-server)
Display NameA friendly name to display in the UI (e.g., MCP Server)
MCP Server URLThe HTTP URL of your MCP server endpoint
Authentication TypeAuthentication method for the MCP server connection
Share credentials(Optional) Share credentials with organization

Prerequisites

  • HTTP MCP server deployed and accessible
  • MCP server URL (e.g., https://your-mcp-server.com/mcp)
  • Network access to the MCP server
  • Appropriate authentication credentials if required

Setup Wizard

Step 1 - Server Identification

  1. In Cardinal Desktop Application, go to Connectors and click Browse Connectors
  2. Select HTTP MCP Server
  3. Enter a Name for this MCP server
    • Example: my-mcp-server, custom-tools, external-api
    • This is a unique identifier used internally
  4. Enter a Display Name for this connection
    • Example: MCP Server, Custom Tools, External API
    • This is displayed in the Cardinal Desktop Application UI

Step 2 - Server Configuration

  1. Enter your MCP Server URL

    • Example: https://your-mcp-server.com/mcp
    • The HTTP URL of your MCP server endpoint
    • Include the protocol (http or https)

  2. Select your Authentication Type from the dropdown

    • No Authentication - For public or locally accessible servers
    • Additional authentication methods available based on your MCP server requirements

Step 3 - Credentials Storage (Optional)

  1. Check Share credentials with organization to securely share with your organization
    • When disabled: credentials are stored locally on this device
    • When enabled: credentials are securely shared with your organization members

Step 4 - Save

  1. Click Save to complete the configuration
  2. Cardinal Desktop Application will verify connectivity to your HTTP MCP server

Your AI agent can now access tools and resources from your custom MCP server.

Understand the assets and product features →

Reach out to support@cardinalhq.io for support or to ask questions not answered in our documentation.

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