Overclocking increases the clock speed of a computer’s central processing unit (CPU) beyond its rated maximum speed. It can be a great way to get some extra performance out of your computer, but it can also be risky if not done correctly.
In this article, I’ll explain how you can tell if your CPU is overclocked and how to safely overclock your CPU if you decide to take the plunge.
Why Overclock Your CPU?
There are a few reasons why you might want to overclock your CPU:
- Improved Performance: The most apparent reason to overclock your CPU is to get better performance out of your computer. A faster clock speed means your CPU can complete more instructions per second, leading to faster load times and better overall performance.
- More Value for Your Money: If you’re on a budget and can’t afford to upgrade to a newer, more powerful CPU, overclocking can be a great way to squeeze more performance out of your existing hardware.
- Competitive Gaming: Every extra frame per second can make a difference in some competitive online games. Overclocking your CPU can give you a slight edge over other players.
Of course, there are also some risks involved in overclocking your CPU. It can void your warranty, and if not done correctly, it can cause your CPU to overheat and potentially even damage your hardware. That’s why it’s important to research and understand the potential risks before you start overclocking your CPU.
Related: How to Fix CPU Fan Error
How to Tell if Your CPU is Overclocked?
If you’re unsure whether your CPU is overclocked, there are a few ways you can find out.
Check the BIOS/UEFI Settings
The BIOS (basic input/output system) or UEFI (unified extensible firmware interface) is a software program that controls your computer’s boot process. It’s also where you can find your CPU’s clock speed settings.
To check your BIOS/UEFI settings:
- Restart your computer and press the key that opens the BIOS/UEFI settings. This key is usually one of the following: Del, F2, Esc, or F10.
- Once you’re in the BIOS/UEFI settings, look for the “CPU” or “Overclock” section.
- In this section, you should see the current clock speed of your CPU. Compare this to the rated maximum speed of your CPU (which you can find on the manufacturer’s website or in your CPU’s documentation). Your CPU is overclocked if the clock speed exceeds the rated maximum speed.
Use a System Information Tool
Another way to check your CPU’s clock speed is to use a system information tool like CPU-Z or HWMonitor. These tools will show you the current clock speed of your CPU as well as other information about your hardware.
To use a system information tool:
- Download and install a tool like CPU-Z or HWMonitor.
- Run the tool and look for the “Clock” or “Speed” section.
- This will show you the current clock speed of your CPU. Compare this to the rated maximum speed of your CPU (which you can find on the manufacturer’s website or in your CPU’s documentation). Your CPU is overclocked if the clock speed exceeds the rated maximum speed.
How to Safely Overclock Your CPU?
If you’ve decided that you want to try overclocking your CPU, there are a few steps you should follow to do it safely:
- Do Your Research: Before you start overclocking your CPU, it’s important to research and understand the potential risks and benefits. This includes finding out the rated maximum speed of your CPU and learning about any potential limitations or bottlenecks in your system. It’s also a good idea to read up on the overclocking process and understand the different settings and options available in your BIOS/UEFI.
- Start Small: When overclocking your CPU, it’s important to start small and gradually increase the clock speed. This will allow you to test the stability of your system at each stage and make any necessary adjustments. It’s also a good idea to monitor the temperatures of your CPU and other components while overclocking to ensure they are within safe limits.
- Use Stability Testing Tools: To test the stability of your system while overclocking, it’s a good idea to use stability testing tools like Prime95 or OCCT. These tools will put a heavy load on your CPU and other components, which can help you identify any potential issues that may arise from overclocking.
- Adjust Your System’s Cooling: Overclocking your CPU will generate more heat, so a good cooling system is essential to keep your hardware running at a safe temperature. If you’re using an aftermarket CPU cooler, ensure it’s properly installed and functioning. If you’re using the stock cooler that came with your CPU, consider upgrading to a better aftermarket cooler to help keep your CPU cool while overclocking.
- Keep an Eye on Your Temperatures: As mentioned earlier, it’s important to monitor your CPU’s and other components’ temperatures while overclocking. If your temperatures get too high, it’s a good idea to reduce the clock speed or make other adjustments to keep your hardware running at a safe temperature.
Conclusion
Overclocking your CPU can be a great way to get some extra performance out of your computer, but it’s important to understand the potential risks and follow proper safety measures.
By doing your research, starting small, using stability testing tools, and keeping an eye on your temperatures, you can safely overclock your CPU and enjoy the benefits of improved performance.
