Upgrading an Intel Celeron Processor

Easiest and cheapest?

Easiest and cheapest is to go to a computer store and buy a new system. You probably do not need to buy peripherals (monitor, printer)... but barebone systems run about $300 and will get you a PIII processor 800MHz, 128MBRAM, 20-40 GB of storage, etc.

Your current system is too old to effective "upgrade." Your bus will not be able to handle anything available these days at computer stores. You're better off starting with a new box.

Check your owners manual, or HPs web site for the supported CPUs for the system.

Then, check out the surplus PC parts market.
www.compgeeks.com
www.computersurplusoutlet.com
are 2 that I have used.

Figure on $50 or less depending on what isavailable when you are ready to buy.
I would replace the fan at the same time.

Now, what do you expect from the faster CPU?
Generally, if you double CPU speed, you will see a 10% - 25% performance improvement.

I assume you are running Windows 9X.
If so, increase your RAM to 196MB will provide nearly the same performance improvement.

Also, if your system has integrated video, switching to a PCI graphics card may provide the most performance improvement.

Chas