## Other AI tools

Using an AI tool we don't list? Connect it with an API key.

Most AI tools connect to Buffer over OAuth, with no API key. Check [Integrations](https://developers.buffer.com/guides/integrations.md) first.

If your tool isn't listed there, you can still connect it to Buffer's MCP server with an API key, as long as it lets you set a request header.

## Setup

### 1. Get Your API Key

You need an API key to connect your AI tool to Buffer.

API Key [Get API Key →](https://publish.buffer.com/settings/api)

Your key is shared with the API Explorer and will prefill the configuration steps below.

### 2. Configure Your MCP Client

LLM clients that support MCP and headers can connect to Buffer by adding an HTTP MCP server with the following settings:

-   Server URL: `https://mcp.buffer.com/mcp`
-   Authorization Header: `Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY`

## Keep your key safe

An API key acts for your account and reaches every organization and channel in it. See [key permissions and scope](https://developers.buffer.com/guides/authentication.md#key-permissions-and-scope) for what a key can do.

Treat it like a password. MCP clients keep it in a config file, often in plain text, and some sync that file between machines. Keep it out of anything you share or commit, and generate a fresh key in [Settings → API](https://publish.buffer.com/settings/api) if you think it has leaked.

## Next steps

See [MCP server](https://developers.buffer.com/guides/integrations/mcp.md) for the tools your AI tool can now use, the rate limits and other security tips.