Real-World Server Patterns
Common architectures for production MCP servers
Database ServerLet AI query your database with natural language
Tools exposed
query_database (read-only SQL)
get_schema (table structure)
Resources
db://schema (auto-loaded context)
Key tip
Start read-only. Expose schema as resource. Block DROP/DELETE.
API WrapperWrap any REST API as an MCP server
Tools exposed
get_weather, search_users, create_task
Resources
api://docs (API documentation)
Key tip
Handle errors with isError. Rate limit. Use env vars for keys.
Multi-Tool ServerGroup related tools into one coherent server
Tools exposed
list_projects, get_project, create_task, update_status
Resources
projects://active (project list)
Key tip
Use verb_noun naming. Be specific. Group with common prefixes.
Now that you understand the fundamentals, let's build real servers that solve actual problems. This module covers three common patterns: database access, API wrappers, and authenticated services.
MCP Integration Patterns
Common architectural patterns for real-world MCP deployments
Read-Only QueryAgent reads from a data source without modificationRisk: Low
Read-WriteAgent reads and modifies external stateRisk: Medium
Multi-Server ChainAgent chains calls across multiple MCP serversRisk: Medium
Human-in-the-LoopAgent prepares action, waits for human approvalRisk: Low