Model Context Protocol (MCP)

How it works

For an AI application to access files, databases or services, a separate integration used to be needed for every combination. MCP defines a common protocol for this: an MCP server provides tools and data, an AI application (the client) uses them in a uniform way. The standard was introduced by Anthropic, and many providers now support it.

A practical example

An assistant accesses calendar, document storage and ticket system through MCP servers without a custom solution being built for each tool.

What you should know

• MCP simplifies integrations but does not replace permission management: check what a server may access.
• Connect only trustworthy servers. A connected tool can read data and trigger actions.
• The standard keeps evolving; features and adoption may change.