Request Flow
- 1LLM generates request for external data
- 2Request formatted as MCP JSON-RPC call
- 3MCP server processes request
- 4Response returned to LLM
What is MCP
Model Context Protocol (MCP) is a standardized way for Large Language Models to connect with external data sources, APIs, and tools. It's the technical foundation that enables AI agents to access real-time information and perform actions in the real world.
Overview
MCP (Model Context Protocol) is an open standard that defines how AI models can securely and efficiently communicate with external resources. Think of it as a universal translator between LLMs and the world around them.
Key Concepts:
- Servers: External services that provide data or functionality (databases, APIs, file systems, etc.)
- Clients: AI models or applications that consume server capabilities
- Protocol: Standardized communication format using JSON-RPC over various transports
- Resources: Structured data that servers can read, write, or manipulate
- Tools: Functions that servers can execute on behalf of clients
Architecture
🤖
LLM Client
GPT-4, Claude, etc.
• Generates requests
• Processes responses
• Manages context
• Processes responses
• Manages context
🔗
MCP Protocol
JSON-RPC over HTTP/WebSocket
• Standardized communication
• Authentication & security
• Resource discovery
• Authentication & security
• Resource discovery
🧠
MCP Servers
External data & tools
• Database connectors
• API integrations
• File system access
• Custom tools
• API integrations
• File system access
• Custom tools
Key Benefits
- ✓Standardized: One protocol for all external connections
- ✓Secure: Built-in authentication and authorization
- ✓Extensible: Easy to add new servers and capabilities
- ✓Language Agnostic: Works with any programming language
Use Cases
📊
Data Analysis
Connect LLMs to databases, spreadsheets, and analytics platforms for real-time data insights and reporting.
🌐
Web Integration
Access web APIs, scrape websites, and integrate with online services for dynamic content and functionality.
💼
Business Automation
Automate workflows, manage documents, and integrate with business tools like CRM and project management systems.
🔧
Development Tools
Access code repositories, run tests, deploy applications, and manage development infrastructure.
📱
IoT & Hardware
Control smart devices, read sensors, and interact with hardware through standardized interfaces.
🎯
Custom Solutions
Build specialized servers for domain-specific tasks, proprietary systems, and unique business requirements.
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