Definition

MCP vs REST for agent context

MCP and REST are delivery patterns for agent context: MCP fits tool-using agents, while REST fits application services and backend workflows.

JSON twin: /data/definitions/mcp-vs-rest-for-agent-context.json

MCP for tools

MCP lets an agent discover and call context tools inside its working environment.

REST for services

REST is better for backend integrations, scheduled jobs, and controlled application flows.

Same context graph

Both can expose the same sources, streams, tags, records, and manifests behind Synorb.

HC reference role

Hanging Context is the public reference layer, not the delivery endpoint.

Where this shows up in Hanging Context

The source, stream, and tag pages on HC are public examples of this definition: static aggregate panels with JSON twins for citation. Detailed retrieval and delivery live in Synorb.