Every program you open and every file you save passes through the CPU as it carries out each task. You can test its role directly by adjusting the clock speed and comparing test scores. Because other parts like the backside cache also affect performance, the winner may not be the part you expect.

A computer depends on physical parts working together to run programs. The CPU sets the clock speed, but the backside cache (a small chunk of fast memory) also affects performance. Changing one part at a time with a speed test shows which piece of hardware matters most.

Benchmarking means running a set test on a computer to measure how fast it performs. In this experiment, you run the same speed test after changing one part at a time — the CPU clock speed, the backside cache, or a software extension. Because the test stays the same each time, the scores show exactly which change made the computer faster or slower.

Cache memory keeps frequently used data in a small, fast storage space near the processor. This project tests that idea by turning the backside cache on or off. Comparing test scores reveals whether this small chunk of fast memory changes computer speed.