Glossary
Custom Claude connector glossary
Short, plain-language definitions for the terms behind custom Claude connectors, from the Model Context Protocol to full read-write access. Pick a term to read the full explanation.
What do these terms mean?
These terms mean the building blocks of how Claude connects to your software. The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is the standard, a connector is the server that speaks it, and read and write access describes what Claude can do once connected. Each term below links to a full, plain-language definition.
If you are new to all of this, the complete guide to custom Claude connectors walks through how these pieces fit together end to end. To see what a connector unlocks in practice, browse the full list of Claude connectors we build.
What is the Model Context Protocol (MCP)?
The open standard that lets Claude connect to outside tools and data through a server it can call.
Read the definitionWhat is an MCP connector?
A server that exposes one tool's data and actions to Claude over MCP, so Claude can read and act inside it.
Read the definitionWhat is a custom Claude connector?
An MCP connector built for your specific software when no off-the-shelf connector exists for it.
Read the definitionWhat is read and write access for Claude?
The difference between Claude only viewing your data (read) and Claude creating or updating records (write).
Read the definitionWhat is full read-write access?
A connector that covers your tool's full read and write surface, with destructive or outbound actions gated.
Read the definitionWhat is generative engine optimization (GEO)?
Structuring content so answer engines and AI assistants can quote it directly, not just rank it in a list.
Read the definition
Want full read-write rather than the limited access most directory connectors ship with? See what full read-write access for Claude looks like for your own tools.
Tell us what you run. We'll build the connector.
Pick your tool, choose what Claude should do, and get an instant scope and price. No call required.