---
{
  "title": "Run your own Workflowy connector",
  "intro": "Compare local MCP and command-line options for connecting external AI tools to Workflowy."
}
---

Run your own connector when you want capabilities beyond the connection built into the Workflowy desktop app, such as a persistent local cache, multiple accounts, command-line workflows, or deeper automation.

# Choose a connector

<div class="connector-comparison-scroll">
  <table class="connector-comparison-table">
    <thead>
      <tr>
        <th scope="col">Connector</th>
        <th scope="col">Best for</th>
        <th scope="col">Setup</th>
        <th scope="col">Platforms</th>
      </tr>
    </thead>
    <tbody>
      <tr>
        <td><a href="/help/local-mcp-app">Workflowy Local MCP app</a></td>
        <td>A visual desktop app, fast local search, backups, and several MCP clients</td>
        <td>Install the app and add a Workflowy API key</td>
        <td>macOS, Windows, Linux</td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td><a href="/help/claude-desktop">Workflowy for Claude Desktop</a></td>
        <td>The shortest setup for Claude Desktop and multiple Workflowy accounts</td>
        <td>Install a <code>.mcpb</code> extension and add one or more API keys</td>
        <td>macOS, Windows</td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td><a href="/help/workflowy-cli">Workflowy CLI</a></td>
        <td>Terminal use, scripts, automations, and a configurable MCP server</td>
        <td>Install <code>wf</code>, sign in, and run <code>wf mcp</code></td>
        <td>macOS, Windows, Linux</td>
      </tr>
    </tbody>
  </table>
</div>

All three options run locally and use a Workflowy API key. Each project is open source, so advanced users can inspect the source and adapt the setup.

# When built-in Desktop MCP is enough

If you only need to connect one compatible AI tool on the same computer, start with [Workflowy Desktop MCP](/help/mcp-server). It uses your signed-in desktop session and does not require a separate connector or Workflowy API key.

# Community connectors

Other community-built Workflowy connectors exist. Before installing one, check how it authenticates, which operations it can perform, whether it stores a local copy of your data, and how recently it has been maintained.

Community connectors are not maintained or supported by Workflowy unless a guide says otherwise.