Multiprocessor system uses two or more separate processors that share resources enabling them to work together seamlessly. This means that if one processor runs into trouble the others can keep things running smoothly.
A processor that has more than one core is called a Multicore Processor while one with a single core is called Unicore Processor or Uniprocessor. Nowadays, most systems have four cores (Quad-core) or eight cores (Octa-core). These cores can individually read and execute program instructions, giving the feeling that a computer system has several processors but in reality, they are cores and not processors.(GeeksforGeeks, 2025)
Advantages of Multicore System:
These cores are usually integrated into single IC (integrated circuit) die, or onto multiple dies but in single chip package. Thus allowing higher Cache Coherency.
These systems are energy efficient since they allow higher performance at lower energy. A challenge in this, however, is additional overhead of writing parallel code.
It will have less traffic(cores integrated into single chip and will require less time).(GeeksforGeeks, 2025)
Disadvantages of Multicore System:
Dual-core processor do not work at twice speed of single processor. They get only 60-80% more speed.
Some Operating systems are still using single core processor.
OS compiled for multi-core processor will run slightly slower on single-core processor.(GeeksforGeeks, 2025)
Advantages of Multiprocessor System:
Since more than one processor are working at the same time, throughput will get increased.
More reliable since failure in one CPU does not affect other.
It needs little complex configuration.
Parallel processing (more than one process executing at same time) is achieved through Multiprocessing.(GeeksforGeeks, 2025)
Disadvantages of Multiprocessor System:
It will have more traffic (distances between two will require longer time).
Throughput may get reduced in shared resources system where one processor using some I/O then another processor has to wait for its turn.
As more than processors are working at particular instant of time. So, coordination between these is very complex.(GeeksforGeeks, 2025)
References
GeeksforGeeks. (2025, July 15). Difference between multicore and multiprocessor system. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/operating-systems/difference-between-multicore-and-multiprocessor-system/
Gillis, A. S. (2022, March 22). What is symmetric multiprocessing (SMP)?. Search Data Center. https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatacenter/definition/SMP
