How to Update CPU Microcode for Security and Stability

Updating CPU microcode is essential to ensure your HPC systems remain secure, stable, and optimized. Follow this practical guide:

Step 1: Check Current Microcode Version

• Verify the currently loaded microcode version:
• dmesg | grep microcode

Step 2: Obtain Latest Microcode Updates

• For Intel processors:
• sudo yum install microcode_ctl
• For AMD processors:
• sudo yum install linux-firmware

Step 3: Apply Microcode Update

• Reboot your system to automatically apply microcode updates loaded by the OS:
• sudo reboot

Step 4: Confirm Microcode Update

• Verify the update has been applied successfully after reboot:
• dmesg | grep microcode

Step 5: BIOS or Firmware-Based Microcode Updates (Optional)

• For more permanent solutions, update BIOS or firmware provided by hardware vendors.
• Follow vendor-specific documentation carefully.

Step 6: Monitor and Document

• Regularly monitor system stability post-update.
• Document updates, version changes, and impacts on performance or stability.

Regular microcode updates significantly enhance system security, stability, and CPU efficiency within HPC environments.