Remote servers
A remote server lives at a URL (like https://mcp.example.com/mcp). You paste the URL into your AI app and sign in. They work in browser apps like ChatGPT and Claude, and the vendor handles updates.
- Best for: business apps (CRM, payments, docs), teams, anything you want working on your phone too.
- Watch out for: uptime. If the vendor's endpoint goes down, your agent breaks. We check 28,512 remote endpoints continuously.
Local servers
A local server is a package (npm, PyPI, Docker) your AI app launches on your computer. They're great for files, databases on your laptop, and developer tools.
- Best for: coding, local files, privacy-sensitive work.
- Watch out for: they only work in desktop apps (Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code, Claude Code), and you have to keep them updated.
Quick rule
| If you want… | Choose |
|---|---|
| ChatGPT or Claude on the web | Remote |
| Your company's SaaS apps | Remote with OAuth |
| Local files or a local database | Local |
| Coding agent tools | Either, local is common |
Auth types, decoded
- OAuth sign-in: you log in with your normal account and approve access. Safest for business data. 6,394 servers use it.
- API key: you paste a secret key. Works, but treat the key like a password.
- No auth: public data only, plug and play.