> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.ti.trilogy.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Key Concepts

> Understanding the core concepts of MCP Hive

# 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](https://modelcontextprotocol.io/docs/concepts/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

<Note>
  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.
</Note>

# 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.

<Note>
  Our [technical documentation for hive creators](/products/mcp-hive/getting-started/hive-creators) provides detailed guidance on creating custom hives from scratch, with step-by-step instructions and best practices.
</Note>

<Note>
  Follow our [specialized guide for hive users](/products/mcp-hive/getting-started/hive-users) to learn how to use a hive as an operational MCP server in your applications.
</Note>