MCP servers are mainframe computer systems that run the Master Control Program operating system. MCP was developed by Burroughs Corporation, which is now part of Unisys. These servers are designed for large-scale enterprise computing with high reliability and performance.
The MCP operating system features a unique stack-based architecture that eliminates the need for assembly language programming. It provides automatic memory management, built-in security features, and multi-programming capabilities. The system supports high-level languages and offers virtual memory management with automatic resource allocation.
Burroughs Corporation was founded in 1886 by William Burroughs and became a pioneer in computer technology. The company developed the B5000 series mainframes and created the MCP operating system in 1961. In 1986, Burroughs merged with Sperry Corporation to form Unisys, which continues to develop and support MCP systems today.
Today, MCP servers continue to serve critical applications in banking, government operations, healthcare data management, and infrastructure control. These legacy systems are valued for their mission-critical reliability and decades of proven stability, though they present unique challenges for maintenance and modernization efforts.
To summarize what we've learned about MCP servers: They are mainframe computer systems that run the Master Control Program operating system, originally developed by Burroughs Corporation and now maintained by Unisys. These systems feature unique stack-based architecture and continue to serve critical applications today, representing an important part of enterprise computing history.