Server cpu

Types of server CPU

A server CPU is the central processing unit that is designed for use in a server. It is also a microprocessor that processes instructions and performs calculations that are the most critical component that determines the performance of the server PC. It is commonly used in the enterprise data center and other business server systems. A server CPU is typically more powerful and has more cores than a consumer-grade CPU to handle the workload of multiple simultaneous users accessing data, running applications, and performing other computing tasks on the server.

Server CPUs come in different types, which are essential for buyers to understand. These include the following;

• Entry-level server CPU: An entry-level server CPU is suitable for small businesses or basic server tasks. It has fewer cores and lower clock speeds than high-end models but is still capable of handling typical server workloads such as file sharing, printing, and email hosting.
• Mid-level server CPU: The mid-level server CPU is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses with moderate workloads. It offers a balance of performance and affordability, making it a popular choice among organizations that do not require the most powerful hardware but still need more than entry-level options can provide.
• High-end server CPU: High-end server CPUs are designed for large enterprises and organizations with demanding computing needs, such as scientific research, financial modeling, or virtualization. They typically have more cores, higher clock speeds, and additional features like support for advanced security technologies or virtualization. These server CPUs can handle intensive workloads and provide the scalability and reliability required by mission-critical applications and multi-user environments.
• General-purpose server CPU: General-purpose server CPUs are versatile processors that can handle a wide range of workloads. They are suitable for running typical business applications, databases, and web servers. These CPUs strike a balance between performance, power efficiency, and cost, making them a good choice for many organizations.
• Specialized server CPU: Specialized server CPUs are designed for specific tasks or industries. For example, they may be optimized for artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data analytics workloads. These CPUs often include additional features such as accelerators for graphics processing or deep learning algorithms. Specialized server CPUs can provide better performance and efficiency when used for their intended purpose but may be less flexible than general-purpose processors.

Function and feature of server CPU

Server CPUs are designed to meet the demanding needs of servers in a data center. As a result, they have a more significant number of cores, execute more instructions per clock cycle, and support various server features than regular desktop PC CPUs.

The following table summarizes the features of AMD and Intel server CPUs.

• Threadripper Pro 5000 Series
  • Intel Xeon Scalable Processor
    • Core Count

Maximum available cores for multi-threaded processing.

• 64 Cores
  • 56 Cores

It is available in various core configurations to accomplish parallel tasks efficiently.

• Threads
  • Thread Count

128 Threads

Supports 128 CPU threads for simultaneous execution of multiple tasks.

Architecture

14nm Zen 3

7nm Zen 4

10nm

Improve performance and efficiency with the latest design and manufacturing technology.

Max Boost Clock

Up to 5.2 GHz

Up to 4.9 GHz

Up to 5.5 GHz

High clock speed to handle demanding workloads.

Max Cache

280 MB

73.5 MB

60 MB

Massive cache for storing frequently accessed data.

Memory

8-channel DDR4-3200

6-channel DDR4-3200

8-channel DDR4-3200

Support for fast memory access to the server.

PCIe 4.0 Lanes

128 total lanes

64 total lanes

80 total lanes

Support for PCIe 4.0, enabling high-speed data transfer with compatible devices.

Max Memory Bandwidth

204.8 GB/s

140 GB/s

204.8 GB/s

Faster memory access for improved performance.

Socket

WRX80

LGA4189

LGA4189

Server CPU socket type for better compatibility with motherboards.

Integrated Security Features

AMD Infinity Guard

Intel Software Guard Extensions (SGX)

Hardware-enhanced security features for data protection.

Maximum Memory

2 TB

4.5 TB

4.5 TB

Support for large amounts of memory for data-intensive tasks.

TDP

280W

270W

350W

Thermal design power for cooling requirements.

Market

Workstation

Real-time analytics, high-performance computing, and server

Server

Target Audience

Creative professionals

Data center and enterprise

Businesses

Release

2021

2022

2022

Year of release

Scenarios

Server CPUs are vital components of the IT infrastructure. They are used in various industries, from small to large businesses, and are utilized in multiple applications that require heavy computing capabilities. Some common scenarios in which server CPUs are used are as follows:

Data Centers: Server CPUs are the brains of the servers that power data centers. They handle various workloads like cloud computing, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence.

Cloud services: Large cloud service providers like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud use many server CPUs to provide infrastructure as a service, platform as a service, and software as a service to their customers.

Web hosting: Websites and web applications are hosted on servers powered by server CPUs. These servers respond to user requests, deliver content, and execute scripts to provide functionalities.

Virtualization: Server CPUs with multiple cores and threads support virtualization technologies like VMware, Hyper-V, and KVM. These allow multiple virtual machines to run on a single physical server, improving resource utilization and flexibility.

Containers: Server CPUs power container orchestration platforms like Kubernetes, which run containers on a cluster of servers. Containers are lightweight and enable quick deployment of applications.

Databases: Data-intensive applications like databases rely on powerful server CPUs to carry out transactions, queries, and data processing. Large organizations may run databases on servers powered by server CPUs.

High-performance computing: Industries like research, finance, and engineering use server CPUs to perform complex calculations, simulations, and modeling for scientific research, algorithmic trading, and product design, respectively.

Streaming: Media companies use server CPUs to power streaming services for delivering audio and video content to users over the internet.

Gaming: Game developers use server CPUs for game development, game servers, and cloud gaming services. Modern games have physics engines, artificial intelligence, and realistic graphics that require powerful CPUs.

Security: Server CPUs support security applications like firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and encryption. These applications protect data, networks, and systems from cyber threats.

How to choose server CPUs

When determining which processor to use in a server, a number of factors should be taken into consideration. The CPU is the heart of a server and is responsible for processing instructions and performing tasks. The following are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind when choosing a server CPU:

• Server workload: The workload of the server will have a significant impact on the CPU requirements. High-performance computing servers or those handling complex tasks like data analytics will need CPUs with more cores and higher clock speeds to deliver the required computing power. On the other hand, basic file storage or web hosting servers can make do with lower-end CPUs.
• CPU architecture: The architecture of the CPU is another important factor to consider. Newer CPU architectures typically offer better performance, efficiency, and security features compared to older generations. It's important to strike a balance between the latest technology and proven reliability.
• Core count: The number of CPU cores is a crucial factor in determining the processing power available. Servers that need to run multiple tasks concurrently or use virtualization extensively will benefit from CPUs with more cores. However, it is worth noting that the core count alone does not determine performance, and other factors like clock speed and architecture also play a role.
• Clock speed: Clock speed, measured in gigahertz (GHz), determines how many instructions a CPU can process in a second. A higher clock speed means faster processing. However, it's important not to focus solely on clock speed without considering other factors, such as core count, as they must be balanced to ensure optimal performance.
• Thermal Design Power (TDP): TDP refers to the amount of heat a server CPU generates while under load. It is crucial to consider TDP when choosing a CPU, especially for servers with limited cooling capabilities. Generally, lower TDP CPUs are more power-efficient and produce less heat.
• Integrated features: Integrated features, such as security accelerators, memory controllers, and virtualization support, can enhance server performance and efficiency. Such features should be taken into account when selecting a server CPU. For instance, Processors with built-in security features like Intel SGX will offer enhanced protection against attacks, hence safeguarding sensitive information and workloads. Also, CPUs with integrated memory controllers improve memory access speeds, which is crucial for server performance.
• Scalability: Scalability refers to the ability of a server CPU to handle increasing workloads and demands. It is, therefore, necessary to select a CPU that can be upgraded as needs change. Scalability is particularly important for growing businesses or those experiencing expansion.

Q&A

Q1: How to choose a server CPU?

A1: To choose a server CPU, the server's intended use should be kept in mind, whether it is gaming, content creation, or a server for virtualization.

Q2: What does a server CPU do?

A2: The CPU (central processing unit) in a server is similar to the CPU in a desktop computer or laptop. It performs the instructions and calculations that are essential to the server's operation.

Q3: How many cores should a server CPU have?

A3: To ensure efficient server operation, select a CPU with at least four cores. This will help the server handle a variety of tasks simultaneously and improve its overall performance and responsiveness.

Q4: Do server CPUs have integrated graphics?

A4: Server CPUs, unlike desktop or laptop CPUs, do not need integrated graphics because servers are usually operated remotely through a network connection and do not require a display output. Therefore, it is important not to mistake one for the other when choosing a CPU for a server.