Definition
The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open-standard communication protocol that allows AI agents and LLMs to securely connect with local and remote data sources, tools, and prompts using a standardized client-server architecture. It removes the need for bespoke integrations by providing a universal interface for resource discovery and tool execution.
A standardized data-transfer interface, not a specific model or a database engine.
"A universal USB-C port for AI: one standard connection that allows any model to 'plug into' any data source or software tool."
- Tool Calling(Prerequisite)
- Function Calling(Component)
- Agentic RAG(Contextual Application)
- JSON-RPC(Underlying Protocol)
Conceptual Overview
The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open-standard communication protocol that allows AI agents and LLMs to securely connect with local and remote data sources, tools, and prompts using a standardized client-server architecture. It removes the need for bespoke integrations by providing a universal interface for resource discovery and tool execution.
Disambiguation
A standardized data-transfer interface, not a specific model or a database engine.
Visual Analog
A universal USB-C port for AI: one standard connection that allows any model to 'plug into' any data source or software tool.