# OpenClaw MCP Setup Guide: Connecting to Local Databases in 2026 Let's cut to the chase. OpenClaw has become the go-to solution for managing microservices. But, setting it up with local databases using the Microservices Control Plane (MCP) isn't straightforward. Today, I'll walk you through how to get it done right in 2026. ## Why OpenClaw and MCP? OpenClaw is the darling of microservices orchestration. It's open source, lightweight, and integrates seamlessly with various platforms. The MCP module acts as the conductor, managing interactions between microservices and databases. So, why bother with local databases? They offer flexibility and control, especially during development. But integrating them with OpenClaw requires a pragmatic approach. ## Prerequisites Before diving in, make sure you have: - OpenClaw v3.2 or later. - MCP installed on your local machine. - A local database (PostgreSQL, MySQL, etc.). - Node.js and npm for scripting. ## Setting Up MCP to Connect with Local Databases ### Step 1: MCP Configuration First, navigate to your MCP configuration file. It's typically located in the `config` directory of your OpenClaw project structure. If you're using a standard GitHub setup, it might look something like this: ```plaintext openclaw-project/ │ ├── config/ │ ├── mcp_config.json │ └── ... └── src/ ``` Edit `mcp_config.json` to include your database connection details. Here's a sample configuration for PostgreSQL: ```json { "database": { "type": "postgres", "host": "localhost", "port": 5432, "username": "your_username", "password": "your_password", "database": "your_database" } } ``` ### Step 2: Install Necessary Packages MCP requires a few Node.js packages for database connectivity. Navigate to your project directory and run: ```bash npm install pg sequelize ``` ### Step 3: Establish Connection Now, you'll need to write a script to establish a connection between MCP and your database. Create a new file, `dbConnection.js`, in your `src` directory: ```javascript const { Sequelize } = require('sequelize'); const sequelize = new Sequelize('your_database', 'your_username', 'your_password', { host: 'localhost', dialect: 'postgres', logging: false }); (async () => { try { await sequelize.authenticate(); console.log('Connection has been established successfully.'); } catch (error) { console.error('Unable to connect to the database:', error); } })(); ``` ### Step 4: Integrate With MCP Ensure your MCP service includes the script you just wrote. Add the connection logic to your service initialization code. The updated `mcp_service.js` might look like this: ```javascript const startService = async () => { require('./dbConnection'); // Rest of the MCP service logic console.log('MCP service running...'); }; startService(); ``` ## Common Pitfalls and Debugging ### Connection Issues If you encounter connection errors, double-check your database credentials in `mcp_config.json`. Ensure your database server is running and accessible. ### Dependency Conflicts Node.js dependencies can be a pain. Use `npm list` to check for conflicts. Sometimes, a simple `npm update` resolves issues. ### Performance Concerns Running a local database can be resource-intensive. Monitor your system's performance and consider upgrading hardware if necessary. ## Conclusion Connecting OpenClaw's MCP to a local database might seem daunting, but it's not rocket science. With a little patience and these steps, you'll have a setup that's ready for any development challenge in 2026. Remember, the key is in the details. Pay attention to configuration files and keep your dependencies in check. If you're stuck, the OpenClaw community on GitHub is a treasure trove of knowledge. Dive in, experiment, and streamline your microservices workflow like a pro.