IBM i MCP Server
An open-source, IBM-published server implementing the Model Context Protocol (MCP), letting AI agents and LLMs query Db2 for i data and take defined actions on IBM i using natural language. In beta since October 2025.
What it lets AI do on IBM i
- Query Db2 for i data in plain English
- Inspect system objects
- Take defined actions on IBM i
It works with any AI client that speaks the Model Context Protocol, such as Claude, GPT-4-based tools and local LLMs.
How a question reaches your data
- You askYou ask an MCP-compatible AI client a question.
- The client picks a toolThe client calls a tool on the IBM i MCP Server. Tools are SQL statements defined in YAML and shared with a companion ibmi CLI.
- The tool runsThe server runs that SQL against Db2 for i through Mapepire.
- You get an answerThe result goes back to the AI client, which answers you.
What it is not
It is a connector and agent tooling layer. It does not train or run machine learning or predictive models.
Related Terms
Db2 for i
The relational database management system built into every IBM i operating system, tightly integrated with IBM i rather than a separately installed database product.
IBM i
IBM's operating system for Power servers running traditional AS/400-lineage business applications, with Db2 for i built directly into the OS.
IBM Bob (Project Bob)
IBM's generally available AI coding agent for IBM i, built as a fork of Visual Studio Code and tuned for RPG, CL, DDS, and SQL. Reached GA on March 24, 2026; Bob 2.0 and the IBM i-specific Bob Premium Package for i shipped June 24, 2026.