Intel Xeon E7-8890 v3 Server Processor (SR21V) – 18-Core, 36-Thread, Up to 3.3GHz, LGA 2011-1, 45MB L3

The Intel Xeon E7-8890 v3 (SR21V) is an LGA 2011-1 server processor with 18 cores, 36 threads and boost clocks up to 3.3GHz. Built on Xeon E7-8800 v3 (Haswell-EX, up to 8-socket), with 45MB L3, it is aimed at IT teams, MSPs and homelab builders upgrading or populating servers.

Proven server compute for upgrades, rebuilds and homelabs.

Right-Sizing Server Compute Without Replacing the Platform

When a server runs out of CPU headroom, replacing the whole platform is rarely the cheapest option. Many teams can extend the life of existing hosts by upgrading to a higher-core processor that fits the same socket, or by adding a second matched CPU.

The Intel Xeon E7-8890 v3 delivers 18 cores and 36 threads on the LGA 2011-1 platform with 45MB L3 and DDR3/DDR4-1866 ECC (via memory buffers) memory support. That makes it a practical choice for virtualization, databases, file and web services, and homelab clusters built on Xeon E7-8800 v3 (Haswell-EX, up to 8-socket).

Cores, Clocks and Cache in Practice

With 18 cores, 36 threads, up to 3.3GHz and 45MB L3, the Intel Xeon E7-8890 v3 handles virtual machines, containers and database workloads with headroom. Power is rated at 165W TDP.

Platform and Connectivity

The LGA 2011-1 socket supports DDR3/DDR4-1866 ECC (via memory buffers) and 32 PCIe 3.0 lanes. A discrete graphics card is required for display output.

Setup Instructions

How to Install the Intel Xeon E7-8890 v3

1. Confirm your server motherboard supports the Xeon E7-8890 v3 on the LGA 2011-1 socket and update BIOS/firmware first.
2. Power down, discharge static and remove the existing heatsink and processor carefully.
3. Align the CPU with the socket key, install it, apply fresh thermal paste and refit the heatsink to the specified torque.
4. Boot to BIOS, confirm cores and memory are detected, then load your hypervisor or OS and verify performance.