> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.0mcp.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Quick start

> Create, publish, and connect your first MCP server in just a few minutes.

## Before you begin

You'll need:

* A 0mcp account
* An [**OpenAPI 3.x** or **Swagger 2.0** specification](/api-sources/openapi)
* Your API specification in **JSON** or **YAML** format

You can import your specification from a **file**, **public URL**, or **pasted text**. Uploaded files must be **10 MB or smaller**.

## 1. Create a server

From the dashboard, select **Create Server** and give your MCP server a descriptive name.

## 2. Import your OpenAPI specification

Upload a file, provide a public URL, or paste your specification.

0mcp validates the document and automatically discovers the available API operations.

## 3. Choose your tools

Select which API operations should be exposed as [MCP tools](/capabilities/tools).

You can also customize tool names and descriptions before creating your MCP server.

## 4. Publish a version

Open the **Versions** page and publish your server.

Only the **published version** is visible to connected MCP clients. Any unpublished changes remain in draft until you publish them. Learn more in [Versioning](/guides/versioning).

## 5. Test in the Playground

Open the [**Playground**](/guides/playground) to verify that your server works as expected.

If your API requires [authentication](/concepts/authentication-model), provide the appropriate credentials and test a read-only tool before connecting an AI client.

## 6. Connect your client

Open **Setup**, choose your MCP client, such as Claude Code, Cursor, Codex, or VS Code, and copy the generated configuration. See [Client setup](/guides/setup) for guidance.

Add any required environment variables, then restart or reconnect your client.

<Warning>
  **Security tip:** Never store production API credentials in shared configuration files. Use the environment variables or secure credential inputs recommended on the **Setup** page.
</Warning>

If you run into connection problems, see the [MCP connection troubleshooting guide](/troubleshooting/mcp-connection-issues).