How do I troubleshoot connection errors in MCP?

Most MCP connection issues can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps. Learn how to identify and fix common errors, and when to contact Dataslayer support or your AI provider.

Connection errors in MCP are usually straightforward to resolve. This guide helps you identify what's causing the issue and how to fix it.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Before diving into specific errors, try these solutions:

Verify your setup:

  • Ensure you're logged into both Dataslayer and your AI provider
  • Confirm your AI provider subscription supports MCP (paid plans required for Claude and ChatGPT)
  • Check that your Dataslayer account has active data sources connected

Check your MCP server URL:

  • Copy the exact URL from Dataslayer (AI → Dataslayer MCP)
  • Make sure there are no extra spaces or characters
  • The URL should be https://agents.dataslayer.ai/mcp

Reconnect from scratch:

  • Disconnect the MCP server from your AI provider
  • Wait a few seconds
  • Follow the setup process again from the beginning

Many connection issues are resolved with a simple disconnect and reconnect.

Common Errors and Solutions

"Unable to connect to server" or "Connection failed"

  • Verify you copied the MCP server URL correctly
  • Check that your internet connection is stable
  • Try disconnecting and reconnecting

If the problem persists, contact Dataslayer support.

"Authentication failed" or "Invalid credentials"

  • Log out of Dataslayer and log back in
  • Disconnect and reconnect the MCP, going through the full authentication flow
  • Verify your Dataslayer account is active

If authentication continues to fail, contact Dataslayer support.

"No data sources found" or "Cannot access data"

  • Log into Dataslayer and verify you have at least one data source connected
  • Check that your data source connections are active and not expired

If data sources show as connected in Dataslayer but MCP can't access them, contact Dataslayer support.

Query returns empty results

  • Verify the date range you're requesting has data
  • Check that the metrics and dimensions exist in that data source
  • Simplify your query and try again

This is usually a query structure issue. The AI provider can help you refine your query.

Platform-Specific Issues

ChatGPT:

  • MCP requires Developer mode enabled (Settings → Apps & Connectors → Advanced settings)
  • Only works on the web interface, not mobile apps
  • "Connector can't be used for search" is a normal message, your connection is working

Claude:

  • Requires a Claude Pro or Team subscription (free accounts don't support MCP)
  • Must set up on the web or desktop first before using on mobile

Mistral AI:

  • Use the web interface at chat.mistral.ai
  • Toggle the connector on in each chat session using the tools icon

For platform-specific errors beyond connection setup, contact your AI provider's support.

When to Contact Support

Contact Dataslayer support when:

  • Authentication to Dataslayer fails repeatedly
  • The MCP server URL doesn't work
  • You can't access your data sources through MCP
  • Queries return Dataslayer or data source permission errors

Contact your AI provider when:

  • You can't find where to add MCP connectors in their interface
  • MCP features aren't available despite having the right subscription
  • Platform-specific errors or interface issues occur

Not sure? Start with Dataslayer support, we can help identify where the issue is and direct you accordingly.

Get Help

Contact us via live chat on our website or email info@dataslayer.ai. Include:

  • Which AI provider you're connecting to (Claude, ChatGPT, or Mistral)
  • The exact error message
  • What troubleshooting steps you've tried

Related Questions


As always, please contact us via our live chat on our website or via email if you still have doubts or questions. We are happy to help!