{"version":"2.1.284","anchor":"managed-policy-can-block-claude-mcp-add-when-strictplugino","canonical_anchor":"managed-policy-can-block-claude-mcp-add-when-strictplugino","heading":"claude mcp add is refused when managed settings allow only plugin MCP servers","tier":"notice","area":"MCP","url":"https:\/\/changelogs.core-directive.com\/v\/2.1.284\/e\/managed-policy-can-block-claude-mcp-add-when-strictplugino","release_url":"https:\/\/changelogs.core-directive.com\/v\/2.1.284","markdown":"### `claude mcp add` is refused when managed settings allow only plugin MCP servers\n\nIf managed settings restrict MCP servers to plugins, `claude mcp add` now stops with an error instead of adding a server that never loads\n\n**What**\n\nAn MCP server is an add-on that gives Claude extra tools. Organizations can set `strictPluginOnlyCustomization` in managed settings, the settings an administrator controls. When it is `true`, or is a list that includes `mcp`, `claude mcp add` now refuses to add a server. The message says your organization allows only MCP servers that plugins provide, and suggests installing a plugin that provides the server or asking your administrator.\n\n**Why**\n\nUnder that policy you now get a clear refusal when you add the server. Before, the server was added and then never loaded.\n\n- Area: MCP\n- Names: `strictPluginOnlyCustomization`, `claude mcp add`\n- Tier: You'll notice\n- Useful: 3\/5\n- Signal: 1\/5"}