# What is an MCP server?

> An MCP server is the connector that lets an AI assistant use one tool, such as your ad account. What it does, examples for marketing, and what to check.
- **Author**: Marxx
- **Published**: 2026-10-24
- **Category**: AI
- **URL**: https://marxx.ai/library-glossary/mcp-server

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An MCP server is a small connector that lets an AI assistant use one outside tool or data source. Claude, ChatGPT and other assistants that support [MCP](/glossary/mcp) can plug into it and then read data or take actions in that tool when you ask.

## In plain words

The assistant is a capable new hire with no logins. Each MCP server hands it access to one system, with rules about what it may do. A Google Ads MCP server lets it read campaigns. A Slack one lets it post a message.

## What a server offers

| Part | What it is | Marketing example |
|---|---|---|
| Tools | Actions the assistant can call | "Get last week's spend by campaign" |
| Resources | Data it can read | A list of your saved ads |
| Prompts | Ready-made tasks | "Write a weekly report" |

## Local vs hosted

- **Local servers** run on your own computer. You install them and they use your keys.
- **Hosted servers** run on the vendor's side. You connect with a link and sign in. No install.

Hosted servers are easier for marketing teams. Local ones give more control to developers.

## A worked example

You connect a hosted MCP server for your ad intelligence tool in Claude. You ask: "What hooks are my three biggest competitors using this month?" Claude calls the server's tool for competitor ads, gets back the ads with their hooks, and writes a short summary with examples. You did not open a dashboard.

## What to check before you connect

1. **Scope.** Read-only, or can it change things?
2. **Approval.** Do changes wait for your yes?
3. **Source.** Is it from the platform or a vendor you trust?
4. **Account.** Does it use a login you can revoke later?

## FAQ

### Do I need to code to use an MCP server?

Not for hosted ones. You add the server's address in your assistant's connector settings and sign in.

### Can one assistant use many servers?

Yes. You can connect several and ask questions that need data from more than one.

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