Processors are the heart of computing and it becomes really crucial that you pick a processor that provides efficiency, reliability and high performance. So, being an important part of a server’s motherboard, CPU, executes complex functions and calculations that power the server and allow it to process data and execute computational tasks.
Now, you need a processor to run your servers smoothly and accurately, then why not pick the best in the industry? Intel is one of the leading, and highly preferred and used processor brand out there. Among the Intel processors, the Xeon line is derived from Pentium, especially Pentium Xeon III. Intel Xeon CPUs are available in four different series that include: Xeon E, Xeon D, Xeon W and Xeon Scalable.
What do these Xeon processors support?
Xeon processors support virtualization, cloud computing, data analytics, database management, graphical user interfaces, heavy load computing, etc. Intel Xeon are also found in consumer-level computers, for example, and Xeon Scalable processors are found in business workstations and support multiple-socket servers.
Here are some features that make an Intel Xeon processor suitable for your servers
- ECC RAM
- Clock Speed
- Multiple Cores
- Multiple CPUs
- Hyper Threading Technology
- Virtualization Support
- Purpose and Cost
The Error Correcting Code (ECC) memory is an important and noticeable feature embedded into Intel Xeon processors. ECC identifies and corrects faulty data, rectifying it immediately on encounter, making it suitable for mission-critical applications.
- Rectifies single bit errors
- Provides uptime for server
- Provides high reliability
Clock speed is the speed at which the CPU or the processor can perform a certain task or generate a command. Intel Xeon families have varying clock speeds and accuracy to match industry-level applications. In combination with the Turbo Boost technology, the CPU speed is amplified.
- Faster computation
- Aids in providing accuracy
- Consistent performance throughout the use
Xeon processors are powerful and capable of supporting numerous cores which can handle critical and data-demanding tasks. In general, a Xeon CPU can support up to 48 cores max when compared to Corei7 and i5 that support a maximum of 8 and 4 cores respectively.
- Supports High Performance Computing
- Enhanced virtualization and data analytics
- Support for multi-threaded applications
For applications requiring more cores, additional memory and improved bandwidth, etc., having multiple processors is beneficial. For uplifting such demanding workloads, the Intel Xeon processors can support multiple CPUs and higher cores through Intel’s on-chip logic.
- Multiple CPU configuration is possible.
- Multitask and handle multiple workloads at once.
- Coordinated workload
Hyper-Threading Technology is capable of creating virtual cores and helps distribute the workload among many threads. For complex software operations, this is useful in maximizing the potential of the CPU and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
And hyperthreading is not supported by Intel Core processors like i7 or i5.
- Doubles the core number for Xeons
- Run virtualization and other intensive workloads smoothly.
- Hyperthreading enables enhanced processing.
The cache is the processor’s own tiny bit of memory that stores regular-used data and can retrieve it easily. L3 cache helps with better data synchronization between the processors. Intel Xeon supports L3 level cache that aids applications requiring high performance. Intel Xeon processors take the performance to next level.
- Faster data retrieval
- Double the L3 cache compared to Core i7
- Can support upto 60MB cache
Virtualization has become an essential component of IT infrastructure and it requires good processor and server resources to function efficiently. It allows software and OS to run with the help of simulated hardware in an isolated environment. In this way, the host’s operating system can manage several OSs at once with required extensions and hardware.
- Xeon processors provide good add-on extension support.
- Easier and faster virtualization
- Capable of supporting wide range of OS
Purpose and Cost
Essentially, being thorough with your application needs and your business goals will help you in picking the right processor with right software and hardware orientations. Even in Intel Xeon processors, the processing speed, core count, cache level, etc. vary. So, when you know the kind of support you need, you will be able to choose the best processor and server.
This will also help you invest wisely and prevent you spending on resources you don’t need. In general, the Xeon processors are expensive, so the number of processors needed, number of server sockets available and the orientation of the server should be considered.
Xeon processors are suitable for virtualization, cloud computing, managing databases, intensive and critical workloads, graphics applications and high-performance computing. Therefore, Xeon Processors are a good choice to configure your servers, virtual or physical, for maximized output and smooth workflow.