Model Context Protocol (MCP)
The universal open standard that allows any AI model to connect to any data source — the infrastructure layer of the AI agent economy.
Plain Language Definition
MCP is a universal connection standard that allows AI models to safely access local files, corporate search systems, and external databases. Think of it as a common electrical plug standard — any AI that supports MCP can connect to any data source that speaks MCP. It was developed by Anthropic and is rapidly being adopted by major AI platforms.
Technical Definition
Open-standard communication protocol defining how client applications expose data sources, tools, and capabilities to agentic LLMs — enabling standardized bidirectional communication between AI models and external data systems without custom integration work.
Why This Matters for AI Search Visibility
MCP is becoming the standard by which AI agents access business data. Companies that expose their knowledge bases and product catalogs via MCP-compatible interfaces will be accessible to any MCP-enabled AI agent — potentially including AI shopping assistants, research tools, and enterprise automation.