MCP in AI stands for Model Context Protocol. It is an open standard and open- source framework introduced by Anthropic in November 2024. MCP standardizes the way artificial intelligence systems, especially large language models (LLMs), integrate and share data with external tools, data sources, and applications. Key points about MCP in AI:
- MCP enables AI models to connect and interact with diverse external data sources and tools in real-time.
- It follows a client-server architecture:
- MCP Hosts: AI applications or models that request data or actions.
- MCP Clients: Protocol intermediaries that facilitate connections between hosts and servers.
- MCP Servers: Programs exposing capabilities such as APIs, databases, files, and other resources.
- MCP allows AI systems to read files, execute functions, handle prompts, and interact seamlessly with external environments.
- It solves the "N×M" data integration problem by providing a universal, standardized interface instead of custom connectors for each data source.
- MCP supports agentic AI, enabling AI programs to autonomously pursue goals, make decisions, and take actions based on updated, live data.
- Major AI providers like OpenAI, Google DeepMind, and Microsoft have adopted MCP.
- Uses include software development tools, business process automation, natural language data access, and enterprise internal assistants.
- It enhances AI's ability to provide contextual, accurate, and up-to-date responses by connecting them with external data and services.
In essence, MCP is like a universal protocol that allows AI models to "call" external tools and data sources as if they were integrated parts of the AI system, similar to how web browsers interact with web servers using HTTP. This model enables AI to go beyond static training data, access live information, perform actions, and interact across platforms in a scalable, secure manner. If you want the simple definition: MCP in AI is the Model Context Protocol, a standardized way for AI systems to connect with external data, tools, and services to enhance their intelligence and capabilities beyond their initial training.
