Branch prediction preloading

Abstract

Embodiments relate to branch prediction preloading. A method for branch prediction preloading includes fetching a plurality of instructions in an instruction stream, and decoding a branch prediction preload instruction in the instruction stream. The method also includes determining, by a processing circuit, an address of a predicted branch instruction based on the branch prediction preload instruction, and determining, by the processing circuit, a predicted target address of the predicted branch instruction based on the branch prediction preload instruction. The method further includes identifying a mask field in the branch prediction preload instruction, and determining, by the processing circuit, a branch instruction length of the predicted branch instruction based on the mask field. Based on executing the branch prediction preload instruction, a branch target buffer is preloaded with the address of the predicted branch instruction, the branch instruction length, and the predicted target address associated with the predicted branch instruction.