MCP Server Foundations

The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is the standard for connecting AI models to external tools and data.

Architecture

• Host: The application (like Claude Desktop) that initiates the connection.
• Server: The adapter providing tools, resources, or prompts.
• Client: The model's interface within the host.

Transports

• STDIO: Standard input/output for local processes.
• SSE (Server-Sent Events): For remote servers over HTTP.

Lifecycle

1. Initialization: Capabilities negotiation.
2. Interaction: Tool calls, resource reads.
3. Shutdown: Cleanly closing connections.