What is Model Context Protocol (MCP)?

The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open standard that enables developers to build secure, two-way connections between their data sources and AI-powered tools. It provides a universal way for AI systems to access data from content repositories, business tools, and development environments, replacing fragmented custom integrations with a single protocol.

How does MCP work?

MCP has a simple architecture: developers can either expose their data through MCP servers or build AI applications (MCP clients) that connect to these servers. This eliminates the need to maintain separate connectors for each data source.

As AI systems move between different tools and datasets, MCP helps them maintain context, creating a more sustainable architecture than today's fragmented integrations.

What are the applications of MCP?

MCP helps AI models produce better, more relevant responses by connecting them to the systems where data lives. Companies like Block and Apollo have integrated MCP, while development tools including Zed, Replit, Codeium, and Sourcegraph are using MCP to enhance their platforms and help AI agents better understand coding context.