Introduction
The exponential growth of data presents a double-edged sword. While valuable information flourishes, so does the need for robust security measures. Encryption, a cornerstone of data protection, can be computationally expensive and cause heavy stress to computing cores of CPUs. This is where crypto acceleration and Intel Quick Assist Technology (Intel QAT) steps in.
Intel QAT History
Intel QAT was introduced back in 2007, initially available as an add-in PCIe card built with an Intel PCH, Coleto Creek chip. Later on, Intel QAT has been also integrated in Intel CPU including Xeon-D and Atom processors. Over the years, it has evolved through several generations. And the latest Xeon SP CPUs are integrated with Intel QAT Gen4 with enhanced performance.
Intel QAT Evolution
* Different SKUs of QAT cards are available with different chipsets such as 8925, 8955, C626, and C627 to offer different max crypto throughput and power consumption.
** Intel On Demand features offer upgrades with maximum 4 QAT accelerators in selected processor SKU in Intel Xeon Scalable Processors to enable advanced performance for high-performance computing.
Intel QAT has evolved with increased maximum crypto throughput from 50Gbps to 200Gbps and can scale up to 400Gbps with two Xeon SP processors. Apart from the enhanced performance, the evolution of integrated QAT freeing up space in the server chassis as there is no need of expansion slots required by hardware acceleration cards. In addition to saving valuable space for deployment, the integrated solution further reduces the overall system complexity.
Intel QAT 4 Stands Out
Intel QAT 4 integrated in 4th/5th Gen Xeon and Xeon 6 processors is with outstanding acceleration for cryptography and compression. Compared to Marvell DPU, CN106, Intel QAT 4 performs 67% -317% better for crypto acceleration and 33% better regarding the data compression acceleration. Besides, Intel QAT 4 is integrated in x86 processor supporting easier deployment with mature software ecosystem while Marvell DPU integrates ARM processor with less scalability.
Summary
Hardware acceleration has evolved with data surge to bring outstanding acceleration for cryptography and compression. Intel QAT 4 integrated into the latest Xeon processors delivers exceptional performance, outperforming competitors like Marvell CN106. The built-in Intel QAT 4 not only boosts crypto acceleration, but also simplifies server architecture and optimizes space deployment, making it a perfect solution for compute-intensive applications.