Frequently Asked Questions for FreeBSD 8.`X`, and 9.`X`
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# 4.2 Architectures and Processors

4.2.1. Does FreeBSD support architectures other than the x86?
4.2.2. Does FreeBSD support Symmetric Multiprocessing (SMP)?
4.2.3. What is microcode? How do I install Intel CPU microcode updates?

4.2.1. Does FreeBSD support architectures other than the x86?

Yes. FreeBSD divides support into multiple tiers. Tier 1 architectures, such as i386 or amd64; are fully supported. Tiers 2 and 3 are supported on an if-possible basis. A full explanation of the tier system is available in the Committer's Guide.

A complete list of supported architectures can be found on the platforms page.

4.2.2. Does FreeBSD support Symmetric Multiprocessing (SMP)?

Symmetric multi-processor (SMP) systems are generally supported by FreeBSD, although in some cases, BIOS or motherboard bugs may generate some problems.

FreeBSD will take advantage of HyperThreading (HTT) support on Intel® CPUs that support this feature. A kernel with the `options SMP` option, enabled by default, will automatically detect the additional logical processors.

smp(4) has more details.

4.2.3. What is microcode? How do I install Intel CPU microcode updates?

Microcode is a method of programmatically implementating hardware level instructions. This allows for CPU bugs to be fixed without replacing the on board chip.

Install `sysutils/devcpu-data`, then add:

    microcode_update_enable="YES"

to `/etc/rc.conf`

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