CPU for a basic computer

[Cerb]

Except that a current-gen SSD upgrade would be crippled to half its potential. It wouldn't matter for an HDD -- not much.

No, it wouldn't be.

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/ssd-upgrade-sata-3gbps,3469-8.html
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/ssd-upgrade-sata-3gbps,3469-15.html

It will be limited to like 80-90% its potential, with NCQ. 6Gbps is mostly a benefit for file copying, and not much more. The SATA controller being older will limit it a bit more than that review suggests, assuming an ICH7-ICH10, but as long as there's NCQ, it will still beat the pants off even the fastest of HDDs.

 

[crashtech]

An SSD would be an excellent first move, since it can simply be rolled into a new build if required. Coupled with an OS reload, it might just put enough spring into the old C2D's step to make upgrading unnecessary for another year or two.

 

[serpretetsky]

My daughter has an old C2D computer that is pretty slow

Please describe the slowness. Loads windows slowly? loads programs slowly? choppy while browsing youtube/facebook? WebPages take a while to load?

 

[VirtualLarry]

Please describe the slowness. Loads windows slowly? loads programs slowly? choppy while browsing youtube/facebook? WebPages take a while to load?

Wouldn't hurt to clean the dust out too, in case it's throttling due to high temps.