Redefining Computing: Rise of ARM from consumer to Cloud for energy efficiency

Abstract: Today, our lifestyle revolves around digital devices powered by microprocessors of different instruction set architectures (ISA). Among them, the most common are x86 and ARM, the brainpower of our computers and smartphones. Reduced instruction set computing (RISC) is the basis of ARM architecture, designed to offer greater energy efficiency. On the other hand, principles of complex instruction set computing (CISC) are utilized by x86 processors, which handle heavier computing tasks while being more power-hungry. The rise of smartphones over a decade has changed the laptop market. It also influenced customers towards ARM-based energy-efficient laptops. This transition in the computing segment is seen not only in consumers but also in commercial settings, especially data centers. Usually, data centers are designed to operate 24/7, where energy is a big concern. So, ARM chips have started making their way to cloud servers. This paper comprehensively analyzes and compares the ARM and x86 architectures to unravel the factors contributing to ARM's increasing dominance in the market. It also explores the impact of smartphones on the laptop market and assesses the significance of system-on-a-chip (SoC). Focusing on the proper utilization of energy and sustainability, our paper offers valuable insights into the growing trend of adopting ARM processors in the computing industry.