What is MCP Server? Simple Explanation of the Mechanism Connecting AI and External Tools

When using generative AI, you find yourself in situations where you think, "I want it to reference internal company data" or "I want AI to operate calendars and external services."

The "MCP" was created to enable such AI and external tool integration through a common framework.

What is MCP

MCP is an abbreviation for "Model Context Protocol," a common standard for connecting AI with external data and tools.

Previously, when integrating AI with external services, it was necessary to develop individual API integrations tailored to each service.

By using MCP, AI can utilize various information and functions through a common connection method.

It's often explained as "like a USB for AI." Just as devices supporting USB can be connected through a common port, MCP connects AI and external systems through common rules.

The Role of MCP Servers

An MCP server is a program that provides information and functions that AI can utilize.

For example, there are MCP servers like the following:

• Read files on your computer
• Search a database
• Check code and issues on GitHub
• Search Slack messages
• Check and register calendar appointments
• Search websites

Through MCP servers, AI retrieves necessary information and executes permitted operations.

A major characteristic is that it can proceed with actual work data verification, not just answering questions.

What Can You Do with MCP

For example, if you connect to internal materials and databases, you can make requests to AI like the following:

"Check past sales materials and create a proposal"

"Check this week's schedule and tell me available times"

"Organize unresolved issues on GitHub"

"Refer to internal manuals and respond to inquiries"

Previously, people had to open multiple services, copy information, and pass it to AI. With MCP, AI can retrieve necessary information from connected sources and potentially proceed with a series of tasks.

Security Verification Is Required During Implementation

While it's a convenient system, MCP servers may be given authority to manipulate files and external services.

Therefore, it's important to verify that the provider is trustworthy, what information can be accessed, and whether write and delete permissions are necessary.

Especially when using it for business operations, it's safer to start with minimal permissions rather than granting large permissions from the beginning.

Summary

MCP is a mechanism for connecting generative AI with external data and services through a common method.

By leveraging MCP servers, AI can perform tasks closer to actual operations, such as file reference, data search, schedule confirmation, and business tool operation.

If you want to know what kinds of MCP servers are available for actual business use, this article is also helpful.

10 Essential Claude MCP Servers for Real Business Use | Nocode Solutions Inc.