Skip to main content
Glama

Backfill Fetch

fetch_page

Fetch a web page and return its readable content as clean markdown, via Backfill Fetch. The service fetches the URL (a plain fetch first, with escalation when the plain fetch returns a bot wall or a JavaScript shell) and extracts the content. Calls are answered free when the fetch is free — a plain fetch inside the daily allowance, or a cache hit inside the free cache allowance. When serving the page would require payment (x402, USDC on Base), the call returns an error directing you to the paid HTTP API at POST https://backfill.top/v1/fetch; payment is never attempted over MCP.

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
urlYes
modeNoauto

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observed

TDQS

A3.8/5.0
Behavior5/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

This score is high because the description handles the entire behavioral profile in detail, covering the fetch escalation process (plain fetch first, then bot wall/JS shell), the pricing model, and the mandated failure path (external paid API link). Since no annotations exist, this detail is critical context that would otherwise be missing.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is highly dense and verbose, but its information is logically grouped: Definition -> Mechanics -> Cost/Error Handling. Every long sentence serves a necessary purpose, making its length justifiable.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the complexity of the service (dynamic fetching, escalation, external payment processing), the description is extremely complete. It successfully explains the service's operational lifecycle and its failure modes, which is essential for this type of external tool.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters2/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema coverage is 0%, meaning the description must define the parameters. The description only refers to the general action of fetching; it fails to explain the semantics or specific impact of the `mode` enum (auto, plain, render) or the required `url` format beyond generic fetching context.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly defines the function as fetching a web page and returning readable markdown. While it doesn't explicitly detail how this differs from `extract_data`, the functional distinction (fetching vs. content extraction) is implied and well-established.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

It provides excellent operational guidelines regarding when the call is free (cache hits/daily allowance) versus when it requires payment and fails (402 error). However, it gives minimal guidance on when to use this tool relative to other fetching tools, offering no specific criteria for selecting it over alternatives like `extract_data`.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

Try in Browser

Glama MCP Gateway

Add one secure layer between your agents and this server.

Resources