Definition
A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is a type of processor built to handle many small, similar calculations at the same time. It was originally created to render images and video on computers and gaming devices, but its parallel design also makes it useful for other high-volume computing tasks.
In crypto contexts, GPUs are general-purpose chips that can be used for certain kinds of blockchain-related computation, such as some proof-of-work mining algorithms. Unlike regular CPUs, GPUs are optimized for throughput rather than complex single-threaded logic, which can make them more efficient for repetitive mathematical operations.
In Simple Terms
A GPU is like a large group of smaller calculators working together inside a computer. Instead of focusing on one big task at a time, it handles many similar tasks in parallel.
Because of this design, GPUs are well suited for graphics, video, and some crypto-related workloads that need lots of repeated math. They are a common hardware component in desktops, laptops, and specialized rigs used for intensive computation.