Model Context Protocol
Also called MCP
Model Context Protocol is a standard for connecting AI applications to external capabilities and information. It defines how compatible clients and servers exchange access to features such as tools, resources, and prompts.
[Model Context Protocol]In practice · hypothetical example
An assistant connects to an MCP server that exposes a document search tool.
[Model Context Protocol]A little deeper
A common interface can reduce custom integration work. The protocol is not itself the model, the external service, or permission to perform any possible action. [Model Context Protocol]
A common mix-up
MCP is a language model.
MCP defines an integration protocol used by applications. [Model Context Protocol]
What is MCP’s role when an assistant connects to document search?
Sources & editorial notes
Evidence: supported. Primary-source support for this scoped entry; publication approved by the project owner.
- What is the Model Context Protocol (MCP)? ↗ (opens in new tab)Model Context Protocol · Publication date unknown
Relevant section: What can MCP enable?; How does MCP work?
Last editorial review: 2026-09-13 by project-owner.
First observed in this corpus: Unknown.
Revision history
Revision 2 · Created 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-13
Project owner approved the current content for publication. Existing evidence scope and limitations remain applicable.