What is MCP?
MCP stands for Model Context Protocol, an open standard that lets AI applications use a common pattern to connect to data, tools and workflows.
A defined MCP server can expose a specific capability to authorized clients rather than requiring a custom integration for every system.
What problem does MCP solve?
Organizational data is spread across files, CRM systems, databases and services. Point-to-point integrations are difficult to maintain and govern.
MCP provides a common way to describe tools and Context, while each connection still needs its own identity and policy checks.
MCP architecture
A Host provides the user experience, an MCP Client manages a connection, and an MCP Server exposes a defined tool or data capability.
This separation does not grant every client access to every server; identity, authorization and scope remain separate concerns.
What is an MCP Server?
An MCP Server exposes a defined capability such as document search, limited data retrieval or an approved tool.
A production server should have a narrow scope, explicit inputs and outputs, event logging and secure secret management.
MCP and AI agents
AI agents can use MCP as a standard way to discover and invoke approved tools and Context.
MCP does not replace agent design, action control, output evaluation or human approval.
Security and access
A standard connection does not mean unlimited access. Authentication, authorization, least privilege, tool allowlists, audit logs, secret management and network controls remain essential.
Sensitive requests should be checked against the requesting identity, source and action policy.
- Authentication and authorization
- Least privilege and tool allowlists
- Audit logs and secret management
- Network controls and trust boundaries
MCP in the enterprise
Organizations can create separate servers for knowledge, CRM, databases and operational systems, then constrain each agent to the smallest necessary scope.
Start with a small, evaluable scenario: one tool, one defined data domain and clear stop or approval criteria.
MCP at Aivan
At Aivan, data and tool connections should follow the user's role, access level, source and audit requirements. MCP can be one connection pattern; the final design depends on organizational policy and infrastructure.
Frequently asked questions
What is MCP?
An open standard for connecting AI applications to external tools and data.
Is MCP a complete security solution?
No. It is a connection standard; identity, authorization, limits and audit are still required.
How does MCP relate to AI agents?
An agent can use MCP to access tools and Context through a standard interface.
Should an MCP Server access all organizational data?
No. It should expose only the minimum necessary scope.
Sources and further reading
- AnthropicIntroducing the Model Context Protocol25 November 2024 · Official announcement
- Model Context ProtocolWhat is the Model Context Protocol (MCP)?Official documentation
- AnthropicDonating the Model Context Protocol and establishing the Agentic AI Foundation9 December 2025 · Official announcement