CISC Definition

CISC as in complex instruction set computer is referring to an architecture of a computer that allows the system to execute a few of the lower-level operations through a single set of instructions. These operations can include simple steps like arithmetic calculations to multi-step processes like addressing modes.

In association to CISC there are several advantages and disadvantages. The former includes memory efficiency, reduced code size and its widespread usability while the latter contains a slower rate of execution, more intricate design and increased power consumption as compared to its counterpart RISC.