---
title: Connect to OpenAI
slug: connect-to-openai
docTags: 
createdAt: 2026-02-03T14:49:47.686Z
---

In this guide, learn how to connect your MCP toolbox to OpenAI.

**Prerequisites**

- OpenAI Platform account
- [MCP toolbox URL and key](docId\:JqY6i5aCFIm-kOm9ERv7A) 

To connect your MCP toolbox to OpenAI:

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In OpenAI's Playground, sign in to your OpenAI account.
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Navigate to **Prompts**.
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In **Tools**, click the + button.
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Select **MCP Server**.
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Click **Add new** to open a form.

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In **URL**, add your MCP toolbox URL. 
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Name your MCP toolbox. 
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In **Authentication**, select **Access token / API key**.
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Add your MCP toolbox key to the field that requires an access token.
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Click **Connect**.
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You have now connected your MCP toolbox server to OpenAI.

:::hint{type="info"}
**MCP toolbox timeout:** Your MCP toolbox scenarios must finish running within 40 seconds. If a scenario runs longer, the connection times out and no outputs are returned to the client.
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