---
title: Using MCPs (Model Context Protocol)
description: Master Jan's MCP system to extend AI capabilities with external tools and services
video:
  type: collection
  collection: using-mcps
---

import { List } from 'starlight-videos/components';

# Using MCPs (Model Context Protocol)

Model Context Protocol (MCP) is Jan's powerful system for connecting AI models to external tools, APIs, and services. This advanced tutorial series teaches you how to enable, configure, and maximize MCPs to dramatically expand your AI's capabilities.

<List title="Prerequisites" variant="caution" icon="warning">
- Jan installed and working
- Downloaded at least one model
- MCP feature enabled in Jan settings
- Basic understanding of APIs and web services
- Some technical comfort with configuration files
</List>

## What You'll Master

By completing this collection, you'll be able to:

- **Enable and Configure MCPs**: Set up the MCP system in Jan
- **Connect External Services**: Integrate with APIs, databases, and tools
- **Custom MCP Development**: Build your own MCP integrations
- **Troubleshoot Issues**: Debug and optimize MCP performance
- **Security Best Practices**: Keep your integrations secure

## Series Overview

This comprehensive tutorial series contains 8 hands-on videos that progress from basic setup to advanced custom development. Each video includes practical examples and real-world applications.

### Videos in This Series

1. **MCP Introduction & Setup** - Understanding MCP and initial configuration
2. **Enabling Your First MCP** - Step-by-step activation process
3. **Search Integration with Exa** - Connect web search capabilities
4. **Data Analysis with E2B** - Integrate code execution environments
5. **File System Access** - Local file and folder operations
6. **Custom API Integration** - Connect your own services
7. **Building Custom MCPs** - Develop your own integrations
8. **MCP Security & Best Practices** - Keep your integrations secure

## Who This Series Is For

- **Power Users**: Ready to extend Jan's capabilities
- **Developers**: Want to integrate Jan with existing tools
- **Business Users**: Need specialized AI workflows
- **System Administrators**: Managing Jan for teams

## Technical Requirements

<List title="System Requirements" variant="note" icon="laptop">
- Jan version 0.5.0 or later
- Active internet connection for external services
- API keys for third-party services (as needed)
- Administrative privileges for some integrations
</List>

## Popular MCP Use Cases

### Development Workflows
- **Code Analysis**: Analyze codebases and repositories
- **API Testing**: Test and document API endpoints
- **Database Queries**: Connect to databases for data analysis
- **CI/CD Integration**: Automate build and deployment tasks

### Business Applications
- **CRM Integration**: Access customer data and insights
- **Document Processing**: Analyze and process business documents
- **Spreadsheet Operations**: Read and manipulate Excel/Google Sheets
- **Email & Calendar**: Schedule meetings and send communications

### Research & Analysis
- **Web Scraping**: Gather data from websites
- **Academic Research**: Access scholarly databases
- **Market Analysis**: Connect to financial and market data
- **Social Media**: Analyze social media trends and data

## Time Investment

- **Total Runtime**: Approximately 2 hours
- **Hands-on Practice**: 4-6 hours additional
- **Recommended Schedule**: 2-3 videos per week
- **Completion Time**: 3-4 weeks with practice

## Learning Path

### Beginner Track (Videos 1-4)
Start here if you're new to MCPs. Learn the basics of setup and use popular pre-built integrations.

### Intermediate Track (Videos 5-6)
Ready to customize? Learn to configure advanced integrations and connect your own services.

### Advanced Track (Videos 7-8)
For developers and power users who want to build custom MCPs and implement enterprise-grade security.

## Support & Resources

- **Documentation**: Complete MCP reference guide
- **Community**: Discord channel for MCP users
- **Examples**: GitHub repository with sample integrations
- **Troubleshooting**: Common issues and solutions guide

Ready to supercharge your AI capabilities? MCPs will transform how you work with Jan!