What is Hyper-threading?

Hyper-threading is an Intel technology that improves CPU performance by improving parallelization of computations.

What is Hyper-threading?

Hyper-threading is an Intel technology that improves CPU performance by improving parallelization of computations. It allows a CPU to perform more tasks at the same time by performing more work in parallel. Many of Intel's latest CPUs, such as Intel Core processors, Intel Core vPro processors, Intel Xeon processors, and Intel Core M processors, are equipped with this technology. Hyper-threading is usually enabled by default on systems that support it.

Hyper-threading works by dividing each physical CPU core into two logical cores, or threads, which improves CPU efficiency. This technology allows multiple instructions to run in parallel on separate data. A CPU with hyper-threading enabled exposes two logical cores for each physical core, allowing the system to direct each logical processor to execute a specific thread independently. For example, a 10-core Intel 10900K improves the performance of the system by displaying a total of 20 CPU threads. However, to use hyperthreading, both the operating system and the BIOS must support simultaneous multithreading. This feature is usually enabled by default.

Hyperthreaded CPUs are different from multi-core processors, which have multiple physical processors on a silicon chip. In hyperthreaded CPUs, the logical processors in the core share execution resources such as the cache, execution engine, and system BUS interface. This sharing is advantageous because if one logical processor stops waiting for data, the other logical processor can maximize the utilization of each physical CPU core by using the available resources. This improves processor throughput and overall system performance. Intel claims that hyperthreaded CPUs can perform up to 30% better than their non-hyperthreaded counterparts.

The benefits of Intel's hyper-threading technology include running complex, demanding applications simultaneously, improving system responsiveness and efficiency, enabling users to complete tasks faster, and providing faster response times for applications. The performance boost provided by hyper-threading depends largely on how well the operating system and software are optimized to take advantage of this technology.

How Can You Enable Hyperthreading?

To enable hyper-threading, you must have a compatible CPU and motherboard. If they both support hyperthreading, it's usually enabled by default. If not, you can enable it in your BIOS settings. Similarly, you can disable hyper-threading through the BIOS if you want. When hyper-threading is disabled, each kernel will appear as a single thread in the operating system.

Why Is Hyperthreading Important?

Hyper-threading is important because it allows users to make full use of their CPU under certain conditions. Most of the time, a CPU needs to retrieve data or instructions from memory, and the short interval required for this is enough time for the CPU to execute many instructions. Hyper-threading uses this range to run instructions from another thread; thus, performance is increased as no time is wasted and CPU power is fully utilized.

Hyper-Threading'li CPU'lar vs. Hyper-Threading Olmayan CPU'lar

A CPU with hyper-threading allows multiple threads to run on each core, allowing the CPU to complete more work in parallel. Conversely, a non-hyperthreaded CPU has only one execution content per core and manages a single software thread. For example, a hyperthread-enabled CPU will appear to have two logical cores for each physical core, allowing each core to manage multiple software threads in parallel. This efficiency allows the CPU to take advantage of idle time, resulting in increased performance.

What is the Difference Between Single-Threaded Applications and Multi-Threaded Applications?

Single-threaded applications execute instructions in a single sequence and process one command at a time. In contrast, multi-threaded applications execute instructions in multiple sequences, allowing different parts of the program to run simultaneously. Multithreading splits work for parallel processing and allows multiple CPU cores to process threads at the same time.

What are the Benefits of Hyper-Threading?

The benefits of hyper-threading include processing more information in less time and executing more background tasks without interrupting the workflow. This is especially advantageous for multitaskers and professionals who use heavily threaded applications.

Not all Intel processors come with hyperthreading. For example, some Intel Xeon and Intel Atom processors include hyperthreading, while others do not. In general, i7 and i9 processors have hyperthreading, while some i3 and i5 processors do not.

Should You Enable Intel Hyper-Threading?

If your CPU and motherboard support hyperthreading, it is recommended that you enable it. Intel claims that hyperthreading can improve single-socket system performance by up to 30%, and it doesn't cost anything to enable it. Most manufacturers recommend keeping hyperthreading enabled as part of best practices for system performance. To check if your system supports hyperthreading, search for "Intel Hyperthreading Technology" in the BIOS settings. If he is disabled, let him enjoy the benefits.

Does Microsoft Windows Support Hyperthreading?

Microsoft Windows supports hyperthreading by using the second architectural state on the physical processor core when there are more active threads than physical cores. The Windows performance monitoring tool will show each physical core as two logical cores. For example, an Intel i9 10900K with 10 physical cores will show 20 threads in Windows. However, because each logical processor shares its microarchitectural components with other logical processors, enabling hyperthreading does not double performance. Intel claims that hyperthreading improves single-socket system performance by up to 30%, resulting in a modest performance increase.