Intel processors can help your company's computers run smoothly and quickly, whether your Intel CPUs are servers, workstations, or laptops. You can purchase them either bundled with the motherboard or separately, but if you decide to buy one separately make sure a qualified individual installs the processor. Different processors are required for workstation and server environments, so determine your specific hardware requirement before purchasing.

Intel processors are available for both desktop and mobile environments, and have multiple offerings available for various performance and price point requirements. Choose an Intel processor that is appropriate for the computers in your office:

1. Buy Intel processors for your company's desktop computers.

2. Consider purchasing an Intel mobile processor for each laptop in your office.

3. Check out Intel processors appropriate for servers or workstations.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase a processor that is meant for your desktop Intel CPU

If your office primarily uses desktop computers, you will be interested in processors meant specifically for that type of CPU. Intel has three categories for its desktop processors. The Intel Celeron processor family combines value with high speeds, while the Intel Core processors offer energy efficiency and some of the newest processors available. The Intel Pentium processor category allows you to multitask easily while performing complex functions, such as editing video. You can choose among these based on your needs and budget.

I recommend: Newegg offers the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550 Yorkfield 2.83GHz 12MB L2 Cache LGA 775 95W Quad-Core Processor for your desktop at a competitive price. Directron.com carries the Intel Pentium Dual-Core E2180 2.0GHz 800MHz Socket 775 65nm Processor, which enhances multitasking abilities for business users.

Find an Intel mobile processor for your company's laptops

If your business primarily encourages laptop use among employees, select appropriate mobile processors. Intel has mobile versions of all its desktop processors, such as the Intel Celeron processor group, Intel Core processor family, and Intel Pentium processor category. Each group of processors delivers similar qualities to laptops as they do to desktops, which makes choosing a processor easy if you are already familiar with those for desktops.

I recommend: Dell carries the Intel Celeron M processor, which is great for high performance and long battery-life in sleek, light laptops. You can find the Intel Core 2 Duo T9400 2.53GHz Mobile Processor at PC Connection. This Intel dual core processor lends speed and high performance to laptops, allowing employees to easily multitask.

Select Intel processors that work with servers or workstations

If your office primarily uses a server or workstation, you will need the appropriate processor. Server processors specialize in scalable performance and high power, enabling your company to multitask and be as productive as possible. Workstation processors can handle complex figures and visually intense data while consolidating programs and applications onto fewer systems. Such power allows your employees to do more in less time.

I recommend: The Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor 7300 enables your employees to be more productive while reducing the space used by data, which saves you money. You can buy the Xeon MP Quad-Core E7310 1.60GHz Processor at pcRUSH.com. Intel's MB S5000PALR Dual Xeon 5400 Series allows workstations to operate at full power. You can find the Intel Xeon X5472 Processor EU80574KL080NT at TigerDirect.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If staying within a budget is important to you, do not purchase an Intel processor that was just released in the last month. If you wait at least two months, the price will often drop dramatically.