Understanding the Model Context Protocol (MCP)

The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is the foundation that makes Claude Skills possible. This article explains how MCP works and why it's revolutionary for AI applications.

What is MCP?

MCP is an open-source protocol that allows AI models like Claude to interact with external tools, data sources, and specialized capabilities in a standardized way.

Key Components

1. Skills

Pre-configured capabilities that Claude can access.

2. Connections

Secure links between Claude and skill providers.

3. Contexts

Shared understanding between Claude and skills.

How It Works

1. Registration - Skills register with the MCP server
2. Discovery - Claude discovers available skills
3. Invocation - Claude calls skills when needed
4. Response - Skills return results to Claude

Benefits

• Standardization - Consistent interface across skills
• Security - Controlled access to capabilities
• Flexibility - Easy to add new skills
• Performance - Optimized for speed

Getting Started with MCP

Visit our MCP setup guide to configure your environment.

Ready to build with MCP? Explore the possibilities today!