Is the i7 processor faster than a dual core?

I don't know anything about these new processors.There's one I want to order from Dell when I get my tax refund, but I don't know if it's much of an improvement over what I have.

My computer: Intel Celeron dual core 2.66 GHz, 3 Gigs RAM, Geforce GT 240 graphics card, Intel (R) 82566DC Gigabit Network Card.

One I want: i7-2600 @ 3.4 GHz, 12 Gigs SDDR3 RAM, AMD Radeon HD 6870 graphics card, standard USB 2.0 + 10/100/1000 ethernet.

My current computer can't even handle my AT&T U-verse internet. Every time a web page loads, the whole browser locks up for 15-30 seconds. I can't scroll or click on anything until after the 15-30 seconds. I can barely watch a streaming HD video because it can't load faster than it plays. The machine can barely function with 2 programs running at the same time. Would that new computer fix all these problems?

okay well tc.. a core i7 2600k is the 2nd best cpu in terms of mosy anything average users do (the best is the 2700k) that money can currently buy. while the celeron is probably as old as you are.

Well, yes. An i7 is a hell of a lot better than a Celeron. By a long, long, LONG way.

But the kind of problems you're experiencing won't be improved by a faster CPU. For the slow browser loading and the slowdown with multiple programs open, try defragging your hard drive, checking for malware, and clearing out unused files (try Disk Cleanup for starters: Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup)

And the fact that you can't stream HD video without it buffering is due to the quality of your internet connection. A faster CPU won't make your download speed faster.

I wiped my hard drive and reinstalled windows earlier this year. As soon as I get everything back on the computer, it starts with the internet problems. Would a new ethernet card help, or all they all the same? Also, my bitdefender scan doesn't show any viruses. Should I try a different virus protection?

That older PC should have no problems when simply looking at the hardware it has, but there could be something wrong with some parts. Could be one of a lot of things. I suggest you get that new PC. It has some great hardware and you'll be able to run a bunch of games at great settings and smoothly.

The difference between your Celeron and an i7 is like the difference between a Peel P50 and a Bugatti Veyron. Or a flea to an elephant. Or AMD to Nvidia/Intel:P

It is night and day difference, but your internet problems are unlikely due to your hardware.

Have you tried different anti virus or a different browser?

i think what we really should tell the TC that is he cant buy a WORSE computer from Dell........apart from an Atom powered netbook, nothing on Dell.com is slower then his current PC

Is there another website besides Dell where I can customize a computer and have them build it for me? Dell doesn't give you a whole lot of options. They don't even put in a Nvidia card higher than the Geforce GT500 series.

Is there another website besides Dell where I can customize a computer and have them build it for me? Dell doesn't give you a whole lot of options. They don't even put in a Nvidia card higher than the Geforce GT500 series.

DSPX

[QUOTE="DSPX"]

Is there another website besides Dell where I can customize a computer and have them build it for me? Dell doesn't give you a whole lot of options. They don't even put in a Nvidia card higher than the Geforce GT500 series.

MonsieurX

as does tigerdirect (to an extent) and if you live in canada then memoryexpress is another