What is MCP Server (Model Context Protocol)?
A standardized server that gives Claude Code access to external tools and services.
Detailed Explanation
MCP (Model Context Protocol) servers are standardized interfaces that provide Claude Code with tool access beyond its native capabilities. They run as separate processes and expose tools, resources, and prompts that Claude can invoke. MCP servers enable Claude to interact with databases, APIs, file systems, browsers, and any external service. The protocol is open-source and supported by multiple AI coding agents. Servers are configured in mcp.json files and can be installed globally or per-project.