Claude, ChatGPT and MCP, explained
How MCP servers, connectors and remote tools work in Claude and ChatGPT, with a real WordPress site as the example.
How to add MCP to ChatGPTAdd an MCP server to ChatGPT 2 ways: as a plugin on the web at chatgpt.com/plugins, or as a local or remote server in the desktop app. As of October 2026.The best MCP servers for people who run websites13 MCP servers worth adding if you run websites, grouped by job: browser testing, analytics, SEO, code, payments and your CMS. Sourced, as of October 2026.How to build an MCP serverBuild a working MCP server in about 15 lines with the official Python or TypeScript SDK, take it remote with OAuth, and know when to skip building one.The ChatGPT Apps SDK, as of October 2026The ChatGPT Apps SDK builds an MCP server with optional UI inside ChatGPT. What changed when apps became plugins in July 2026, and the 6 steps to ship one.ChatGPT developer mode, explainedChatGPT developer mode lets custom MCP servers run read and write tools. Where the switch is in October 2026, who controls it, and the 4 risks OpenAI lists.Claude Connectors: What They Are and Which to AddClaude connectors let Claude read and act in apps like Slack, Gmail and GitHub. The 3 kinds, 8 worth adding first, how to switch them on, and team rules.How to Add a Claude Custom ConnectorAdd any remote MCP server to Claude as a custom connector: the exact menus for Pro, Max, Team and Enterprise, what the 3 sign-in options mean, and 5 fixes.Claude Desktop MCP: The Config File, Extensions and ConnectorsClaude Desktop MCP works 3 ways: claude_desktop_config.json, one-click .mcpb extensions, or remote connectors. File and log paths for Mac, Windows and Linux.Claude MCP Servers: Local vs Remote, and Where to Find ThemClaude MCP servers explained: local vs remote, the 7 official reference servers, and 10 official remote URLs from Notion, Linear, GitHub, Stripe and more.Claude MCP: What It Is and Every Way to Use ItClaude MCP works in 4 places: claude.ai connectors, the desktop app, Claude Code and the API. What each one needs, which plans get it, and where to start.MCP vs API: The Difference, and When to Use EachMCP vs API in plain terms: an API is for code you write, MCP is for an AI that decides. A side-by-side table, one task done both ways, and when to pick each.Remote MCP Server: How Streamable HTTP and OAuth WorkA remote MCP server runs at an HTTPS URL instead of on your computer. How Streamable HTTP and OAuth 2.1 work as of the 2026-07-28 spec, and how to add one.The WordPress MCP Adapter, explainedThe official WordPress MCP Adapter turns Abilities API abilities into MCP tools. Setup in about 10 minutes, its limits, and how to register an ability.