The Benefits of Big-Endian CPU Architecture Over Little-Endian Systems

Introduction: Understanding Big-Endian vs. Little-Endian Architectures

When it comes to computer architecture, one of the most important factors that can have an effect on the design and functionality of a system is the manner in which data is stored and processed at the byte level. Big-endian architecture and little-endian architecture are the two categories that are used to classify this distinct divergence between systems. When working with multi-byte data types, such as integers or floating-point numbers, these phrases refer to the order in which bytes are kept in memory. Specifically, they relate to the order in which bytes are saved. Big-endian systems continue to have a substantial presence in certain applications and types of computing hardware, such as network equipment, some mainframes, and embedded systems. This is despite the fact that little-endian systems, such as those based on Intel x86 CPUs, are the dominant type of computing in the current landscape.

The advantages of utilizing a big-endian CPU architecture as opposed to a little-endian one will be discussed in this article. The article will also analyze the influence that this architecture has on performance, compatibility, and use cases. Despite the fact that little-endian has become…