Architecture
Understanding how MCP connects AI applications with data and tools
Understanding MCP Architecture
Model Context Protocol creates a bridge between your AI applications and your data through a straightforward system. This page explains how all the pieces fit together.
The Big Picture
Think of MCP as a universal translator between AI applications and data sources. The AI application doesn't need to know how to talk to each data source directly.
Core Components
Host Applications
These are the programs that users interact with, such as:
- Claude Desktop
- VS Code with Copilot
- Various AI chat applications
MCP Clients
The client component lives inside the host application and handles:
- Finding and connecting to MCP servers
- Sending requests to the appropriate server
- Displaying results and tool actions to users
- Handling permissions and security
MCP Servers
Each server is a specialized program that:
- Connects to specific data sources or tools
- Translates between MCP protocol and the data source's native format
- Handles authentication and security for the data source
- Responds to client requests with the requested information
How It All Works Together
When you ask an AI assistant a question that requires external data:
User makes a request
You ask a question like "What files are in my downloads folder?"
AI determines data needs
The AI recognizes it needs file system information
Client finds appropriate server
The MCP client identifies which connected server can handle file operations
Client sends request to server
The client asks the file system server to list files in the downloads folder
Server retrieves information
The server accesses your file system (with appropriate permissions)
Server returns data to client
The server sends the file list back to the client
AI delivers response
The AI can now answer your question with accurate information
Connection Types
MCP supports different ways for clients and servers to communicate:
Standard I/O (stdio)
- Used when the server is launched as a local process
- Simple and secure for local communication
- Used by most MCP servers that run on your local machine
Server-Sent Events (SSE)
- Used for network communication
- Allows connecting to remote MCP servers
- Supports authentication for secure access
Remember that MCP servers run with your user permissions. Only install servers from trusted sources, just as you would with any software.
Getting Started
Ready to try MCP? You have several options:
- Use existing applications that support MCP, like Claude Desktop
- Install pre-built MCP servers to extend your AI applications
- Build your own MCP server using our Quick Start Guide
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