Microsoft has just unveiled the Model Context Protocol (MCP) in Copilot Studio – and let me tell you this is amazing.
What’s New: Model Context Protocol Integration
So, what’s the big deal with MCP? Imagine being able to hook up your AI models directly to existing knowledge servers and APIs without breaking a sweat. MCP allows makers to connect to these resources seamlessly within Copilot Studio. Once connected, actions and knowledge are automatically added to your agent and kept up-to-date as functionalities evolve, reducing the time you spend on maintenance. Want your AI model to query a SQL server? Done. Want your AI model to consume some random Kafka topic? No sweat! Need AI to open a Github PR? Easy.
MCP servers utilize connector infrastructure, meaning they come equipped with enterprise security and governance controls like Virtual Network integration and Data Loss Prevention.Multiple authentication methods are also supported, ensuring that you aren’t a bonehead that uses anonymous access.
Getting Started with MCP
Ready to dive in? Here’s a quick guide to integrating MCP into your Copilot Studio experience:
- Create the Server: Use one of the available SDKs to set up your MCP server. This will act as the foundation for handling your data, models, and interactions.
- Publish Through a Connector: Develop a custom connector that links your Copilot Studio environment to your model or data source.
- Consume the Data via Copilot Studio: Once your server and connector are in place, start interacting with your models and data directly through Copilot Studio.
This process not only reduces manual effort but also minimizes the risk of errors from outdated tools. Plus, a single MCP server can manage multiple tools! This is simply amazing!