Hosting · Website glossary

CPU

Quick answer · What is CPU?

The central processing unit executes instructions used by operating systems and applications.

IN PRACTICE

CPU: an example

Generating an uncached report can require CPU work even if the resulting page is small.

KEEP IN MIND

CPU usage alone does not identify the slow component; database waits and network delays may also matter.

Put the idea to work

Frequently asked questions

What is a practical example of CPU?

Generating an uncached report can require CPU work even if the resulting page is small.

Does high CPU usage identify the cause of a slow website?

CPU usage alone does not identify the slow component; database waits and network delays may also matter.

Which concepts should I read alongside CPU?

Memory: Working space used by running software to hold data it needs to access quickly.
Resource limit: A configured boundary on how much of a system resource an account or process can consume.