AutoGen ​

AutoGen is Microsoft's open-source framework for building multi-agent systems where AI agents converse with each other to solve tasks. Unlike single-agent frameworks, AutoGen orchestrates conversations between multiple agents — a coder, a reviewer, and a planner can discuss a task before producing output. MCP tools give these agents access to external data during their conversations.

AG
AutoGen
TRANSPORT
Streamable HTTP ✓
PLATFORM
Python · Framework
MCP VIA
Function Registration

Multi-Agent Conversations with External Tools ​

AutoGen's agent-to-agent conversation pattern is unique. Agents don't just respond to user prompts — they discuss tasks with each other. A GroupChatManager coordinates the conversation, deciding which agent speaks next and when the task is complete.

MCP tools fit into this by giving agents access to real-world data during conversations. An analyst agent might query a database via MCP, share findings with a writer agent, who then drafts a report. The reviewer agent catches issues and sends the writer back to revise — all automatically.

Key features:

  • Agent-to-agent conversations — agents discuss and iterate, not just respond
  • GroupChatManager — coordinates multi-agent discussions with turn management
  • Function calling — agents invoke registered functions including MCP tools
  • Human-in-the-loop — configurable human participation in agent conversations
  • Code execution — agents write and run code in sandboxed environments
  • Teachable agents — agents that learn and remember across sessions
  • Microsoft-backed — active development by Microsoft Research

Python Integration ​

1. Create a Token ​

In Vinkius Cloud, go to your server → Connection Tokens → Create. Copy the URL.

2. Register MCP Tools ​

python
from autogen import AssistantAgent, UserProxyAgent

assistant = AssistantAgent("analyst")
# Register MCP server tools with the agent
# MCP tools are available alongside other function calls

3. Start Conversations ​

Launch a multi-agent conversation. Agents call MCP tools as needed during their discussion, sharing results with other participants.

FAQ ​

How do MCP tools work in multi-agent conversations? Any agent in the group chat can call MCP tools. Results are shared with other agents in the conversation, allowing collaborative reasoning over external data.

Can I mix MCP tools with native AutoGen functions? Yes. MCP tools are registered alongside custom functions. Agents choose the appropriate tool based on the task.

Does AutoGen support human-in-the-loop with MCP? Yes. Configure the UserProxyAgent to require human approval before MCP tool calls execute.

Is AutoGen free? Open-source under MIT. No licensing costs.