Modern RISC-V Cloud Hosting Explained: How Open CPU Designs Are Reshaping Server Technology

Something new and exciting is happening with servers — RISC-V cloud systems! RISC-V cloud systems are new processors that are fully open-source; technology enthusiasts are super excited about them! I’ve been following this trend because it reminds me of when ARM chips were being developed and brought lots of huge advantages to mobile computing, but this time RISC-V is coming faster, cheaper, and with more flexibility.

So what’s going on with RISC-V? Why are so many cloud companies testing it out? Let’s break it down to the basics.

What’s Different About RISC-V?​

For the last ten plus years Intel and AMD have been the primary players in the processor game; however, RISC-V is causing major changes in how architecture is being developed, as RISC-V is completely open-source, meaning that many new companies and developers can treat the architecture like the style of Linux and use it, or modify it freely without paying the kind of licensing agreement that comes with working with ARM or x86 based processors.

Here are some reasons why this is a big deal:

• It saves cost – There is no licensing agreement or fees associated with Intel or ARM.

• It is malleable – It allows the companies to design chips for not only the cloud but also chips based on AIs or databases.

• It allows transparency – Because the design is open-source, it may not be completely better, but can be more secure.

In other words, RISC-V gives the builder and hosting companies more control over the methodology that the hardware is used.

Why the Cloud Companies Embrace It​

Well-known cloud providers, such as Google Cloud and Alibaba Cloud, as well as new entrants like Ventana and others are adopting RISC-V. Why? Because customers want specialized servers, not just one that tries to do everything.

Let's consider this: jobs like AI, data processing, and edge will all have different types of performance. Utilizing a universal chip with an all-purpose architecture limits the design opportunity to ensure the perfect fit.

Normal server architecture for handling AI seems slow and wasteful. With RISC-V, you can design chips that are fast and very low power—just what today's cloud systems need.

Here’s why this is great news for everyone:

• Lower prices for hosting - As cloud companies reduce costs, their pricing may drop from that decreased overhead.
• Energy savings - RISC-V chips use less electricity, which makes data centers greener.
• Additional freedom for developers - Developers are able to leverage open hardware and develop their own version if they want to.

Picture renting a VPS with a fully open source processor! Rather than pipe dreaming, that is coming soon!

The Bad and the Ugly (For Now)​

Of course, there are still some issues. For instance, not every operating system or application yet works without a hitch with RISC-V. But let's be honest — remember when ARM servers were rare? Now they are everywhere with new ARM-based servers from Epiphany and other providers. RISC-V is continuing that rapid evolution.