What is the difference between MCP server and MCP client

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In a client-server architecture, MCP Server and MCP Client have fundamentally different roles. The MCP Server provides resources and services, while the MCP Client requests these resources. They communicate through a request-response pattern, where the client sends requests and the server responds with the requested data or services. The MCP Server is the central component that provides resources and services. It continuously listens for requests from clients, processes these requests using its business logic, and manages shared resources like databases. The server maintains the system's state and ensures data consistency across all client interactions. The MCP Client is the component that requests resources and services from the server. It directly interacts with users through its interface, sends requests to the server based on user actions, and displays the information received from the server. The client handles all user interface operations and manages the presentation layer of the application. The interaction between MCP Client and Server follows a clear pattern. First, the client sends a request to the server. The server then processes this request and accesses necessary resources like databases or services. After processing, the server sends a response back to the client. Finally, the client receives the response and displays the result to the user. This request-response cycle forms the foundation of client-server communication. In summary, the key differences between MCP Server and MCP Client are clear. The MCP Server acts as the central service provider that manages resources, processes business logic, and maintains system state. In contrast, the MCP Client serves as the service requester that handles user interactions, displays interfaces, and presents results. The server focuses on backend operations while the client focuses on frontend user experience. Understanding these distinct roles is essential for designing effective client-server architectures.