You may hear or use the term processor in place of CPU on numerous occasions.
In this article, I will answer that question.
I will also explain the similarities & differences between the CPU and processor.
So, without further ado, lets begin.
Are the Processor and CPU the Same Thing?
you’ve got the option to use the terms CPU and processor interchangeably.
Sometimes people misconception the PC tower as a CPU.
But that is not true.
You may ask, how can a CPU and a processor be the same?
Lets look at their definition & function, and then you will understand effortlessly.
What is a CPU and What Does It Do?
A CPU is the brain of a PC.
It is in charge of managing and directing all the PC components.
TheCPU performs all thelogical and arithmetic processesand controls theinput-output operationsneeded to launch the PC and its software.
What is a Processor and What Does It Do?
A processor is a machine or component that performs operations on data.
It is an integrated circuit that is placed inside the CPU.
Its function is to execute the commands given to the CPU by the PC.
However, there are other processors apart from the CPU.
A processor can be on a simple coffee machine and an advanced GPU in a gaming computer.
The control unit manages the instructions and data flow within the CPU.
The ALU manages mathematical and logical data operations.
The cache is one kind of temporary high-speed memory.
Users can use that memory later for quick excess.
CPU Vs. Microprocessor: Whats the Difference?
Other than their functionality and purpose, there is no difference.
A CPU is made of one or more microprocessors.
It takes the command from the software within the PC and sends it to the microprocessor.
The microprocessor performs those tasks and returns the data to the CPU.
The fact is,all CPUs are microprocessors, but you cant say that all microprocessors are CPUs.
Cause, they are not.
A microprocessor is a single integrated circuit that performs logical and arithmetic operations for the CPU.
All modern CPUs are built on several microprocessors.
The microprocessor is the one that performs all the processing tasks.
Buta single microprocessor can handle one task at a time.
You may think, how can you know how many microprocessors you have in your CPU?
Check whattype of processoryou have.
For example, assume you have an octa-core processor.
It means you have eight microprocessors in your CPU.
Overall, you’re free to say,the CPU is nothing but a whole package of microprocessors.
Sometimes, you may think about the processors durability.
If you do, you must read our separate guide on how long a CPU can last.
What is the Difference Between a CPU and a Processor Core?
The CPU is a microprocessor chip that carries out the commands.
Whereas the processor cores are the individual processing units within the CPU.
The processor core also temporarily stores the data in the RAM.
And the CPU core works closely with the system memory to execute a process.
But, how fast your CPU will perform depends onhow many cores and clock speed it has.
As an example, A 2 GHz clock speed processor can run 2 billion instructions per second.
For additional information, see the article:Does GHz matter in the CPU?
Even a simple function will run slowly.
FAQs
Is the CPU also called a processor?
Yes, in several instances, the CPU is also called a processor.
What are the 3 types of a processor?
The three types of processors are a microcontroller, a microprocessor, and an embedded processor.
Also, you will find digital signal processors on some devices.
Can I add another processor to my computer?
Otherwise, you cant.
Most modern motherboards support multiple processors.
You shouldnt be ashamed, since the question itself is a bit tricky.
The boundary between a CPU and a processor depends only on the bang out of work they do.
Comment below if you have any queries.
