Processors (CPU)

  • CPU (processor) is the brain of the computer.
  • Executes programs and performs calculations.
  • Installed directly on the motherboard.

Processor Types

  • Single processor → one CPU
  • Multiprocessor → multiple CPUs
  • Multi-core → multiple cores in one CPU chip

CPU Architectures

  • x86 (32-bit) → processes 32 bits at a time
  • x86_64 (64-bit) → processes 64 bits (also supports 32-bit)
  • 64-bit advantages:
    • Uses more memory
    • Better performance
    • Improved security

x86 History

  • Originated by Intel (8086, 1978)

  • Common generations:

    • i386, i486
    • Pentium (i586)
    • Pentium Pro (i686)

  • Other makers: AMD, Cyrix

  • Many Linux distros support i686 or newer

Modern Systems

  • Most modern CPUs are x86_64
  • Some software is still 32-bit

Check CPU Architecture

arch

Example output:

x86_64

View Detailed CPU Info

lscpu

Shows:

  • Architecture (32/64-bit)
  • Number of CPUs
  • Cores and threads
  • Vendor (Intel/AMD)