What is an MCP server
An MCP server is a standardized way to give Rival access to an external system or set of tools. MCP — the Model Context Protocol — is an open standard for connecting AI to data and tools, so capabilities can be shared in a consistent, plug-in fashion.
Instead of writing custom code for every internal database or software tool, an MCP server acts like a universal plug-and-play adapter for AI. Once a system is connected through an MCP server, Rival agents and workflows can immediately discover, understand, and use its capabilities safely.
The benefits of a universal protocol
Section titled “The benefits of a universal protocol”- No custom glue code — replaces fragile, custom-built integrations with a standard setup that is easy for IT teams to maintain.
- Reuse across teams — tools exposed through an MCP server can be used across multiple agents and workflows without rebuilding the connection each time.
- Live, structured context — feeds real-time data from your internal software directly into AI workers in a clean, consistent format.
Why MCP servers matter for IT and security
Section titled “Why MCP servers matter for IT and security”As companies add more software, maintaining separate custom integrations creates security risk and extra maintenance work. MCP solves this through centralized control:
- Unified governance — IT admins manage and approve MCP servers using the same permission rules, spending limits, and audit logs applied to standard connectors.
- Easier security audits — security teams audit a single, standardized protocol rather than inspecting dozens of non-standard integration scripts.
- Future-proof tools — custom tools built by your engineering team use an open standard, so they are not locked into a single proprietary system.
A quick example: checking warehouse stock
Section titled “A quick example: checking warehouse stock”- Build the adapter — the engineering team sets up a lightweight MCP server in front of their custom warehouse database.
- IT review and approval — IT security reviews the connection, sets read-only permission boundaries, and approves the server.
- Instant use — agents and workflows can now look up real-time stock levels safely, without ever seeing or exposing raw database credentials.
Connectors vs. MCP servers
Section titled “Connectors vs. MCP servers”| Feature | Enterprise connectors | MCP servers |
|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | Pre-built integrations for major apps (Salesforce, Slack, Google) | Universal adapters for custom databases, internal tools, or local APIs |
| Connection standard | Direct app API integrations | Model Context Protocol open standard |
| Governance and safety | Admin-approved login and user permissions | Admin-approved endpoints, access scopes, and audit logging |
Related
Section titled “Related”- Secure integrations with major platforms → What is a connector
- How admins manage security across external systems → Governance framework
- Quick lookups → Glossary