Model Context Protocol (MCP) Guide
Master MCP, the new standard for connecting AI models to external data sources safely and securely.
What is MCP?
Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open standard that allows developers to build secure, standardized bridges between LLMs and external data sources (like local files, databases, or SaaS tools).
Architecture Concept
Instead of writing custom API integrations for every single AI tool (Claude, ChatGPT, custom apps), you build ONE MCP server. Any MCP-compatible client can instantly connect to it.
Interview Preparation
Why did Anthropic introduce the Model Context Protocol? (Answer: To standardize context retrieval and eliminate fragmented API integrations.)
MCP Architecture
MCP uses a Client-Server architecture. The 'Client' is the AI application (like Claude Desktop). The 'Server' is your local or remote service that holds the data. They communicate using standardized JSON-RPC messages over standard I/O (stdio) or HTTP (SSE).
Architecture Concept
Claude Desktop (Client) <--- stdio ---> Local SQLite MCP Server
Interview Preparation
What are the two primary transport layers for MCP? (Answer: stdio for local processes, and HTTP Server-Sent Events for remote connections.)