Get started with the Model Context Protocol (MCP)MCP is an open protocol that standardizes how applications provide context to LLMs. Think of MCP like a USB-C port for AI applications. Just as USB-C provides a standardized way to connect your devices to various peripherals and accessories, MCP provides a standardized way to connect AI models to different data sources and tools. Why MCP?MCP helps you build agents and complex workflows on top of LLMs. LLMs frequently need to integrate with data and tools, and MCP provides: - A growing list of pre-built integrations that your LLM can directly plug into - The flexibility to switch between LLM providers and vendors - Best practices for securing your data within your infrastructure General architectureAt its core, MCP follows a client-server architecture where a host application can connect to multiple servers: MCP Hosts: Programs like Claude Desktop, IDEs, or AI tools that want to access data through MCP MCP Clients: Protocol clients that maintain 1:1 connections with servers MCP Servers: Lightweight programs that each expose specific capabilities through the standardized Model Context Protocol Local Data Sources: Your computer’s files, databases, and services that MCP servers can securely access Remote Services: External systems available over the internet (e.g., through APIs) that MCP servers can connect to Get startedChoose the path that best fits your needs: Quick StartsFor Server DevelopersGet started building your own server to use in Claude for Desktop and other clientsFor Client DevelopersGet started building your own client that can integrate with all MCP serversFor Claude Desktop UsersGet started using pre-built servers in Claude for Desktop ExamplesExample ServersCheck out our gallery of official MCP servers and implementationsExample ClientsView the list of clients that support MCP integrations TutorialsBuilding MCP with LLMsLearn how to use LLMs like Claude to speed up your MCP developmentDebugging GuideLearn how to effectively debug MCP servers and integrationsMCP InspectorTest and inspect your MCP servers with our interactive debugging tool Explore MCPDive deeper into MCP’s core concepts and capabilities: Core architectureUnderstand how MCP connects clients, servers, and LLMsResourcesExpose data and content from your servers to LLMsPromptsCreate reusable prompt templates and workflowsToolsEnable LLMs to perform actions through your serverSamplingLet your servers request completions from LLMsTransportsLearn about MCP’s communication mechanism ContributingWant to contribute? Check out our Contributing Guide to learn how you can help improve MCP.
