# Usage with Claude Code

> Add the StrideHQ MCP server to Claude Code and sign in with your StrideHQ login.

This guide shows how to connect the StrideHQ MCP server to Claude Code, signing in with your StrideHQ login.

## Before you start

- **Claude Code**, installed and signed in.
- **MCP access switched on for your organisation**, and **AI clients allowed by your Owner** in **Settings > Developers**. See [What you need](https://developers.stridehq.ai/mcp-server#what-you-need.md).
- **A StrideHQ login.** Claude Code gets the same role and permissions as you.

## Connect to Claude Code

1. In your terminal, open a new tab.
2. Run this command:

   ```bash
   claude mcp add --transport http stridehq https://app.stridehq.ai/api/mcp
   ```

   This adds StrideHQ for you in the folder you're in. To use it in every folder, add `--scope user` before `stridehq`.
3. Run `claude` in the same folder to start Claude Code. It shows "1 MCP server needs authentication · run /mcp".
4. Run `/mcp`, choose **stridehq** and select **Authenticate**. The StrideHQ sign-in page opens in your browser.
5. Sign in with your StrideHQ login. If you belong to more than one organisation, choose which one to connect.
6. Approve access, then go back to your terminal. Claude Code shows "Authentication successful. Connected to stridehq."

You've now connected the StrideHQ MCP server to Claude Code.

Never add a StrideHQ API key to the command or as a header. The connection signs you in with your own login, so everything Claude Code does is logged under your name.

## Check it's working

Ask Claude Code:

> Which creators can't be paid yet, and why?

It should answer using your StrideHQ data and show that it used a StrideHQ tool.

## Disconnect

Run `claude mcp remove stridehq`. Owners and Admins can also revoke your access in **Settings > Developers**, under **Connected AI clients**.