---
type: concept
title: Model Context Protocol Overview
description: MCP enables standardized communication between AI agents, tools, services, and external resources.
resource: sources/WJARR-2025-1401.md
tags: [mcp, interoperability, agentic-ai]
timestamp: 2026-06-30
---

# Model Context Protocol Overview

MCP is used as a standardized integration layer for AI systems that need access to external tools, data, APIs, repositories, websites, and enterprise services.

## Key points

- MCP helps agents move beyond static model knowledge by connecting to live capabilities.
- MCP servers package tools so agents can discover and invoke them consistently.
- MCP improves interoperability, but production use requires governance, secure hosting, and strong tool design.

## Related concepts

- [MCP Security Risks](../risks/mcp-security-risks.md)
- [MCP Tool Design Strategy](../strategies/mcp-tool-design-strategy.md)
- [MCP Hosting Strategy](../strategies/mcp-hosting-strategy.md)
