The miniature circuit breakers (MCBs)used in our houses are specially made SWITCHESthat turn off the circuit when the current exceeds the predefined value.
They MAY make use of the magnetic effect (like a circuit breaker)or heating effect (with a bimetallic strip)of a current.
They are available for DIFFERENT current values (amperes)and hence, can be used in different sections of the circuit.
For example, There maybe ONEfor the circuit of a bedroom and ANOTHER for the kitchen.
The main advantage of an MCB is that it can be reset, just like a switch, and hence can be used many times without having to be replaced.
It's disadvantage over a fuse is that it is more expensive.