ayoubfaouzi/cpu-internals
FreeIntel / AMD CPU Internals
FreeFree tier
About ayoubfaouzi/cpu-internals
A comprehensive set of notes on Intel and AMD CPU internals, derived from the Intel Software Developer's Manual (SDM). These notes serve as a condensed reference for system programming, operating system internals, and virtualization, covering topics such as basic execution environment, memory management, paging, interrupt handling, cache control, debug features, and VMX (Virtual Machine Extensions). The repository is organized by SDM volumes and chapters, making it a valuable study resource for developers and researchers delving into low-level CPU architecture.
Key Features
Condensed notes from Intel SDM on CPU architecture
Covers system programming, OS internals, and virtualization
Organized by SDM volumes (Basic Architecture, Instruction Set Reference, System Programming Guide)
Includes topics: basic execution environment, protected mode, paging, interrupt handling, memory cache control, debug features, VMX
Free and open-source on GitHub
Written for learners and developers interested in low-level CPU details
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Based directly on official Intel SDM, ensuring accuracy
- Concise and well-structured for quick learning
- Covers both legacy and modern IA-32e/64-bit modes
- Includes advanced topics like VMX and Safer Mode Extensions
- Completely free and open-source
Cons
- Not an interactive tool or simulator; purely text notes
- May not cover AMD-specific details beyond shared architecture
- Does not include hands-on exercises or code examples
- Last updated may not reflect the latest Intel SDM changes (check commit history)
Best For
Learning CPU internals and architectureStudying operating system developmentUnderstanding virtualization (VMX) conceptsReference for system-level programmingPreparing for OS or hardware-related interviews
FAQ
What is cpu-internals?
cpu-internals is a GitHub repository containing condensed notes on Intel and AMD CPU internals, extracted from the Intel Software Developer's Manual (SDM). It is intended for those learning system programming, OS internals, and virtualization.
Who is this for?
It is targeted at developers, system programmers, OS enthusiasts, and virtualization researchers who want a concise reference for CPU architecture rather than reading the full SDM.
Is it free to use?
Yes, the repository is open-source and free to use under the standard GitHub terms.
Does it cover AMD CPUs as well?
The notes are primarily based on Intel SDM, but many concepts apply to AMD CPUs since they share similar architecture. The repository title includes 'AMD CPU Internals'.
What topics are included?
Topics include basic execution environment, memory models (flat, segmented, real-address), protected mode, paging, interrupt and exception handling, memory cache control, debug features, and virtual machine extensions (VMX).