How does MCP differ from a regular crypto API?
Category:Blockchain & Web3
Quick Answer
Traditional crypto APIs require custom integration code per data source. MCP standardizes this into a plug-and-play protocol — configure once, use with any MCP-compatible AI host. MCP servers expose AI-native tools that LLMs understand natively, rather than raw JSON endpoints.
Detailed Answer
Key Differences
| Aspect | Traditional Crypto API | MCP Server |
|---|---|---|
| Integration | Custom code per API | Plug-and-play protocol |
| Target user | Developers | AI models (LLMs) |
| Interface | REST/GraphQL endpoints | Tools, resources, prompts |
| Discovery | Read documentation | Auto-discovery by AI host |
| Compatibility | Custom per client | Any MCP-compatible host |
Why MCP Matters
Traditional crypto APIs (CoinGecko REST, Etherscan API) require writing custom integration code for each data source. MCP standardizes this into a universal protocol:
- Configure once — add a JSON config block
- Use everywhere — Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code
- AI-native — tools designed for LLM interaction, not raw JSON
The key difference is that MCP servers expose tools, resources, and prompts that LLMs understand natively, rather than raw endpoints meant for developers.
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