Furthermore, if a user wants to add some new hardware but all the motherboard's slots and ports are in use, that user will have to either get rid of a currently installed piece of hardware to make room or get a motherboard with more input connections. Replacing a motherboard is one of the most difficult computer upgrades. It requires messing with settings on the board itself and reinstalling all of the hardware attached to the old motherboard. With prices as they are, when a motherboard upgrade becomes necessary it usually is best to spring for a new computer with all-new components including the motherboard. The best hardware.
Higher numbers mean faster speed.
When to upgrade. If your computer is doing everything you want it to do, don't worry about the processor. If programs are bumbling along or refusing to run, add more memory. If that doesn't solve the trouble, look into buying a new processor. One of the problems with a processor upgrade is that your motherboard may not be able to handle the CPU you want to add.