Inter Processor Interrupt

An inter- processor interrupt ( IPI) is a particular interrupt that is used by processors in multi-processor systems. IPI by a processor is capable of triggering on a particular processor the interrupt was indicated in the interrupt vector. In this way, a processor to another processor or themselves induce them to perform a specific function. IPIs are typically employed to implement cache coherence synchronization points.

In x86-based multiprocessor systems, an IPI is sent via the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller.

• Processor architecture