How+a+CPU+Works

HOW CPUs WORK

Think of the CPU as the brain of the computer. Without it, the computer would not function. How does this vital piece of hardware work? Every time you input data into your computer, the CPU processes those instructions using four tasks.

1. Fetch-The CPU fetches, or gathers, the code for an instruction. Then, it places the code in the temporary memory where the instructions are stored, known as the instruction cache.

2. Decode-The CPU decodes, or interprets, the instruction in an area of the CPU chip called the decode cache. It determines which functions are to be performed.

3. Execute-The CPU processes, or executes, the instructions and sends the results to their proper destinations.

4. Store-The CPU sends the results of the instructions to the proper memory location to be retained, or sto