How to change the CPU in a computer

Step 1- Check Compatibility:

Step 2- Verify your motherboard's chipset supports the new CPU model.

BIOS/UEFI:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Step 4- Check if your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI needs to be updated to recognize the new CPU. If so, do this before removing the old CPU.

TDP/Power: Ensure your power supply (PSU) can provide sufficient power for the new CPU.

Gather Tools & Prep Workspace:

Step 5- Anti-static wrist strap (highly recommended)

Philips head screwdriver

Thermal paste (new tube, specific for CPUs)

Isopropyl alcohol (90%+ purity) and lint-free wipes/coffee filters (for cleaning old paste)

Clean, well-lit, uncluttered workspace (preferably a hard, non-carpeted surface).

Ground Yourself:

Step 6- Wear an anti-static wrist strap connected to a metal part of your PC case.

Alternatively, frequently touch a grounded metal object (like your PC case while it's still plugged into the wall, but turned off) before touching components.

The Swap:

Step 7- Power Down & Unplug:

Step 8 Completely shut down your computer.

Disconnect all power cables from the wall outlet and the PSU.

Open PC Case:

Step 9- Remove the side panel(s) to access the motherboard.

Remove CPU Cooler:

Step 10- Disconnect the CPU fan power cable from the motherboard.

Unmount the CPU cooler (method varies greatly by cooler type – screws, clips, levers).

Carefully lift the cooler off the CPU. There will be old thermal paste; it might stick.

Clean Old Thermal Paste:

Step 11- Using isopropyl alcohol and lint-free wipes/coffee filters, gently clean all old thermal paste from the top of the old CPU (and the base of the cooler, if reusing).

Remove Old CPU:

Step 12- Locate the CPU retention lever(s) on the socket (usually one or two metal levers next to the CPU).

Push down and away on the lever(s) to unlatch the CPU socket.

Gently lift the retention frame.

Carefully lift the old CPU straight up and out. Avoid touching the pins on the bottom of the CPU (if Intel) or the contact pads (if AMD). Place it in its protective clam-shell case.

IStep 14- nstall New CPU (EXTREME CAUTION):

IStep 15- dentify Orientation: Look for a small triangle or arrow on one corner of the new CPU and align it with the matching triangle/arrow on the CPU socket on the motherboard. DO NOT FORCE IT.

Gently Place CPU: Carefully lower the new CPU straight down into the socket. It should drop in perfectly with virtually no force if aligned correctly. If it doesn't, do NOT push; re-check alignment.

Secure CPU: Lower the retention frame back down over the CPU. Push the lever(s) down and back into their locked position. This will apply pressure and secure the CPU.

Apply New Thermal Paste:

Step 16- Apply a small amount (pea-sized or a line, depending on CPU size – check manufacturer recommendations) of new thermal paste to the center of the new CPU's heat spreader (the top metal surface). Do not spread it out manually.

Reinstall CPU Cooler:

Step 17- Align your CPU cooler over the CPU.

Mount the cooler according to its specific instructions (screws, clips). The pressure of mounting the cooler will spread the thermal paste.

Reconnect the CPU fan power cable to the motherboard.

Post-Swap:

Step 18 Close Case & Reconnect:

Step 19 Replace the side panel(s) of your PC case.

Reconnect all power and peripheral cables.

Power On & Test:

Step 20- Power on your computer.

If successful, it should boot normally.

If no display, ensure the cooler fan is spinning. You might need to clear CMOS or enter BIOS to check recognition.

Monitor CPU temperatures to ensure the cooler is functioning correctly.