> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://mcp-docs.nichefire.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://mcp-docs.nichefire.com/overview/environments-and-access.md).

# Environments & Access

### Environments & URLs

Nichefire MCP is a remotely hosted server. To connect, configure your AI client with the MCP endpoint provided below and the API key issued to your organization.

| Environment    | Purpose                                                               | MCP endpoint                            |
| -------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------- |
| **Production** | Live data, for day-to-day use.                                        | `https://mcp.nichefire.com/mcp`         |
| **Sandbox**    | Evaluation and integration testing against non-production allowances. | `https://sandbox-mcp.nichefire.com/mcp` |

Keep the following requirements in mind:

* The endpoint path is always `/mcp`, and requests use the `POST` method. Most AI clients require only the complete URL; enter it with `/mcp` included.
* API keys are environment-specific. Sandbox keys cannot be used in production, and production keys cannot be used in sandbox.
* All connections must use HTTPS. Requests made over plain HTTP are rejected.
* Usage allowances are tracked separately for each environment. Sandbox testing does not consume your production allowance.

### Requesting Access

Access to Nichefire MCP is provisioned directly by Nichefire. API keys are not available through self-service in the Nichefire dashboard.

**To request access, contact your Nichefire Sales Representative**

Provisioning is typically completed within 1-2 business days.

> **Treat your API key as a secret.** It grants access to your organization's Nichefire data and draws on your organization's allowance. Store it in your client's credential field or your secret manager — never in shared documents, tickets, or source control. If a key is exposed, contact your Nichefire Sales Representative / Support and we will rotate it.

Once you have received the endpoint URL and API key, continue to **Authentication** to configure your client.