Expedited memory dumping and reloading of computer processors

In a computer system including a processor and a memory, a fast memory dump is conducted upon receiving an indication that the processor requires reloading. The fast memory dump is conducted by initially dumping a portion of the memory, then reloading the processor, and then conducting a post-reload dump of the remainder of the memory after reloading of the processor has commenced. As the post-reload dump continues, the remainder of the memory is gradually released for processor usage. This permits the processor to return as a resource more quickly than would be the case if a full memory dump was conducted before reloading the processor.