VS Code
VS Code works well with native HTTP MCP configuration, but it usually expects either a workspace MCP file or a user-level MCP config entry instead of a local bridge.
WHAT IS DIFFERENT HERE
Editor-specific MCP wiring
VS Code can prompt for the API key instead of hardcoding it, which is the safest default when the same workspace file is shared across a team.
CONFIG LOCATION
Use .vscode/mcp.json in the workspace root, or add the same config through the user-level MCP settings.
Keep the server name stable as zephex and swap only the key between environments.
PREREQUISITES
- VS Code installed.
- The MCP extension or built-in MCP support enabled in your VS Code build.
- An active Zephex API key from the dashboard.
CONFIG
- Create .vscode/mcp.json in the workspace root if you want the config committed with the repo.
- VS Code also supports a user-level config with the "mcp.servers" key if you prefer a global setup.
- Keep the endpoint fixed at the hosted Zephex URL and only swap the API key between environments.
.vscode/mcp.json
{ "inputs": [ { "type": "promptString", "id": "zephex-api-key", "description": "Zephex API Key (get yours at https://zephex.dev/dashboard/api-keys)", "password": true } ], "servers": { "zephex": { "type": "http", "url": "https://zephex.dev/mcp", "headers": { "Authorization": "Bearer ${input:zephex-api-key}" } } }}RESTART
- Open the command palette with Cmd+Shift+P.
- Run "Developer: Reload Window".
- Open a new chat after reload so VS Code re-establishes the MCP connection.
VERIFY
- Open the MCP panel in the sidebar if your extension exposes one.
- Ask the chat what MCP tools are available, or run a manual curl tools/list request.
- Confirm Zephex appears with the hosted tool list.
COMMON ISSUES
- VS Code is missing MCP support or the MCP extension is not installed.
- The workspace file is correct, but the window was not reloaded after the change.
- The API key prompt was dismissed or cached with the wrong value.
If the editor still does not connect, return to Quickstart or check Connection Issues.