title: What are differences between linux kernel compiled for generic x86/64 vs Xeon or others
body: <p>In linux kernel config there is option to change CPU family, most precompiled kernels are <code>generic x86/64</code>.</p>
  
  <p>I have a Xeon E3 CPU so I was wondering what would happen if I pick <code>Core duo/Newer Xeon</code> there.</p>
  
  <p>What exactly are the differences here? Is there any point in compiling kernel for my CPU family, instead of generic one? Would the kernel optimized for Xeon even work on non-Xeon CPU's? Did someone ever measured some differences in performance and so on?</p>