invlpg

The INVLPG (Invalidate TLB Entry) instruction is a privileged instruction in the x86 and x86-64 instruction set architectures. It is used to invalidate a single entry in the Translation Lookaside Buffer (TLB), which is a cache used to speed up virtual-to-physical address translation. The TLB is a critical component of the memory management unit (MMU) in modern processors, and its efficient operation is crucial for system performance.

The INVLPG instruction takes a single operand, which is a linear address. When executed, it invalidates the TLB entry that corresponds to the specified linear address. This can be useful in certain situations, such as when a page table entry (PTE) has been modified and the changes need to be reflected in the TLB. By invalidating the specific TLB entry, the processor ensures that the next access to the address will use the updated PTE.

The INVLPG instruction is typically used in operating system kernels and hypervisors to manage memory mappings and to ensure consistency between the page tables and the TLB. It is a powerful tool for fine-grained control over the TLB, allowing for efficient and precise management of virtual memory.

However, the use of INVLPG should be done with care, as improper use can lead to inconsistencies between the page tables and the TLB, potentially causing system crashes or other unexpected behavior. Therefore, it is usually reserved for situations where the benefits of invalidating a specific TLB entry outweigh the risks.

In summary, the INVLPG instruction is a specialized instruction used to invalidate a single TLB entry based on a specified linear address. It is a critical tool for managing virtual memory in x86 and x86-64 systems, but it should be used judiciously to avoid potential issues.