The central processing unit, or CPU, is a vital component of a computer system. Often referred to as the “brain” of a computer, the CPU receives instructions from software programs or connected hardware, and performs the mathematical and logical operations required to produce the desired output.

Nowadays, the physical “chip” we call a CPU is often composed of multiple CPU cores, and software is written to split tasks between cores to increase the amount of work that can be done per unit of time.