What is Thermal grease used for?

Thermal grease, also known as thermal paste or thermal compound, is specifically designed to improve heat conduction between surfaces, particularly between a CPU (or GPU) and the heat sink that dissipates its heat. The application of thermal grease fills in microscopic imperfections on the surfaces, creating a more effective thermal interface. This enhanced conductivity allows for better heat transfer from the processor to the heat sink, ultimately preventing overheating and ensuring that the CPU or GPU operates within safe temperature ranges.

Using thermal grease is vital for maintaining optimal performance and prolonging the lifespan of components in a computer. It is not intended for sealing CPU sockets, cooling down the motherboard directly, or cleaning components, which distinguishes its specific role in thermal management.