MCP & Tool Protocols
Capability discovery
The process of finding which tools, resources, or functions a connected system supports.
Example
At startup, the client asks each server which tools and resources it supports.
Why it matters
It helps software adapt to the capabilities available in a particular connection.
You'll hear it
“This service supports reading resources but not that action.”
Can you control it?
Set by the team
The people building or running the AI choose this setup. An everyday user generally needs their help to change how this part works.
Common questions
- Does discovery prove a capability will succeed?
- No. A later request can still fail because of permissions, data or service conditions.
- Can available capabilities change?
- Yes. Updates or access changes can alter what the connection offers.
- Is discovering a capability the same as approving its use?
- No. Availability and authorization are separate decisions.