Tool

A tool is a function that an LLM can invoke to perform specific actions or access external resources. Tools are the building blocks of MCP servers and represent discrete functionalities like:
  • create_google_doc(file_name) - Create a new Google Doc
  • read_file(file_path) - Read the contents of a file
  • summarize_text(text) - Generate a summary of provided text
  • search_web(query) - Perform a web search
Tools follow the MCP specification for tools and include parameters, return types, and descriptions that help LLMs understand how to use them.

Hive

A hive is a blueprint for an MCP server that defines what capabilities (tools) it offers to LLMs. Think of it as a collection of tools packaged together for a specific purpose. You can create hives in two ways:
  1. From API Specifications: Convert your existing APIs into an MCP Hive by uploading OpenAPI/Swagger specifications
  2. From Existing Tools: Mix and match pre-built capabilities to create powerful custom hives without writing code
When a hive is added to a workspace and properly configured, it acts as a functional MCP server that LLMs can connect to and use.

Workspace

Your workspace is where you manage your MCP servers:
  • Add hives to make them operational
  • Configure authentication and connection details
  • Get connection URLs for your LLMs
A workspace serves as your control center for managing the lifecycle of your MCP servers, from configuration to deployment to monitoring.
Our technical documentation for hive creators provides detailed guidance on creating custom hives from scratch, with step-by-step instructions and best practices.
Follow our specialized guide for hive users to learn how to use a hive as an operational MCP server in your applications.