The efficiency of ARM64 processors in terms of energy consumption allows for more servers to be accommodated in the same datacentre space compared to x86 hardware.
Running workloads on ARM64 hardware can provide more processing power per datacentre rack. ARM-based racks consume less power and require less cooling infrastructure than x86 server racks.
Scott Sellers, CEO of Azul, discusses the impact of processor architectures on enterprise software development in an interview with Computer Weekly. He emphasizes the importance of the original “write once run anywhere” concept of Java in today’s technology landscape.
The rise of ARM architecture is transforming the market, with companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google investing in ARM64-based server architectures. Sellers highlights the cost-effectiveness and performance efficiency of ARM64 compared to x86 servers.
Java’s adaptability allows applications to seamlessly run on both x86 and ARM64 platforms without the need for modifications. This flexibility simplifies workload migration and decision-making in cloud deployments.
The beauty of Java is that the application doesn’t have to be modified. No changes are necessary. It really does just work
Scott Sellers, Azul
Java’s performance on ARM64 platforms is enhanced by Azul’s Java runtime engine, providing a significant performance boost for customers. The cost-effectiveness of ARM64 compute nodes in the public cloud offers savings and improved workload efficiency.
The choice between x86 and ARM64 platforms should be evaluated based on ROI calculations. ARM64 compute nodes are typically more cost-effective than their x86 counterparts, driving competition in the tech sector.
Sellers suggests a hybrid deployment approach where x86 and ARM64 platforms are utilized simultaneously to leverage the strengths of both architectures.
While GPUs are popular for AI workloads, they may not be suitable for all enterprise applications that require complex parallel processing. Java’s multithreading capabilities make it a preferred language for parallel computing in traditional enterprise applications.
Java’s vector capabilities and multithreading enhancements in recent releases position it as a robust language for developing applications with parallel computing requirements.
As cloud-native architecture becomes dominant, IT decision-makers need to consider the diversity of processor architectures beyond x86 for optimal performance and cost efficiency.
