Core Concepts

What Is MCP (Model Context Protocol)?

An open protocol that lets AI agents connect to external tools and data sources through a standardized interface.

In Plain English

MCP is like USB for AI agents. Instead of building custom integrations for every tool, MCP provides a standard way for agents to discover and use tools. An MCP server exposes tool capabilities. An MCP client (the agent) connects and uses them.

OpenClaw uses MCP as its primary tool integration mechanism. When you connect GitHub, Slack, Stripe, or any other tool to your OpenClaw agent, you are using an MCP server.

The protocol handles authentication, input/output formatting, and error handling — so every tool integration works the same way.

Why It Matters for OpenClaw

Without MCP, every tool integration is a custom project. With MCP, you get 200+ pre-built integrations that work out of the box. MCP also standardizes security — credentials are handled consistently, and every tool call can be audited.

How Clawctl Helps

Clawctl provides 200+ pre-configured MCP server integrations. Connect tools with one click. Credentials are encrypted at rest. Every MCP tool call is logged in the audit trail. Egress filtering ensures MCP servers only reach approved domains.

Try Clawctl — 60 Second Deploy

Common Questions

Who created MCP?

MCP was created by Anthropic and is an open standard. It is supported by OpenClaw and a growing ecosystem of tools.

How many MCP tools are available?

The ecosystem has hundreds of MCP servers. Clawctl pre-configures 200+ of the most popular ones.

Can I build my own MCP server?

Yes. MCP is an open protocol. Build a server for any tool or API and connect it to OpenClaw.