Systems
MCP
A protocol for connecting AI assistants to external tools and data.
Plain-English explanation
Model Context Protocol standardizes how assistants discover and call tools such as files, databases, calendars, browsers, and SaaS systems.
Why it matters
MCP matters because it affects how AI systems are designed, evaluated, priced, or trusted. Knowing the term helps you ask better questions and avoid vague implementation decisions.
- Ask how it changes quality, cost, speed, or safety.
- Look for concrete examples in the workflow you are building.
- Document the tradeoff before choosing a tool or architecture.