Estimated time: 20 minutes

Learning objectives

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Explain what connectors are and why they matter for your work with Claude
• Navigate the connectors directory and set up your first connection
• Use connected tools effectively in your conversations with Claude

Key takeaways

• Connectors transform Claude from an assistant into an informed collaborator by giving Claude access to the same tools, data, and context that you use every day. Instead of starting every conversation from scratch, Claude can work directly with your actual information.
• Connectors allow Claude to read information and perform actions on your behalf. Depending on the connector and permissions you grant, Claude can search your files, retrieve documents, analyze data, create new content, update records, and execute tasks across your connected applications—all from within your conversation.
• The Model Context Protocol (MCP) powers connectors. Think of MCP like USB-C for AI—a universal standard that allows Claude to connect to many different applications through a single, consistent interface. This open standard means developers can build connectors for any tool, and those connectors work seamlessly with Claude.
• There are two types of connectors: web connectors and desktop extensions. Web connectors link Claude to cloud services like Google Drive, Notion, Slack, and Asana. Desktop extensions run locally on your computer through the Claude Desktop app, giving Claude access to local files and native applications.

Finding and connecting tools

Anthropic maintains a directory of recommended connectors at claude.ai/directory. The directory is organized into two tabs:

• Web: Cloud services and applications (Gmail, Notion, Slack, Asana, Linear, Stripe, and many more)
• Desktop extensions: Local tools that run on your computer through the Claude Desktop app

To browse available connectors, you can also click the “Search and tools” button in the lower left of the chat window, then select “Add connectors.”

Setting up a web connector

Here’s how to connect a cloud service:

1. Find the connector: Navigate to claude.ai/directory or click “Search and tools” > “Add connectors” in any chat
2. Click Connect: Select the connector you want to add
3. Authenticate: You’ll be redirected to the service’s login page. Sign in with your existing credentials
4. Grant permissions: Review the specific permissions Claude is requesting, then authorize access
5. Test the connection: Return to Claude and try a simple request, like “Can you access my [tool name]?”

Once connected, Claude can search, read, and in some cases take actions within that service—depending on the permissions you’ve granted.

Desktop extensions

Desktop extensions require the Claude Desktop app rather than the web interface. These extensions let Claude interact with local applications, your file system, and native features on macOS or Windows.

Some desktop extensions include:

• Local file access for reading and organizing documents
• Browser control for automated web tasks
• Native application integration (like Figma for design work)

To install a desktop extension:

1. Download and install the Claude Desktop app
2. Open the app and navigate to Settings > Extensions
3. Browse available extensions and click Install

Follow any additional setup steps specific to that extension

Disclaimer: This course is created independently by DigitalCollegee. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Anthropic, the company that makes Claude AI. All information shared in this course is based on personal experience and publicly available knowledge about Claude AI.