How to Determine the CPU Speed in Windows
Although there is no single number that can truly define the performance of a computer, many people rely on the speed of their CPU as a gauge. If you would like to use your CPU speed to compare computers, most versions of Windows allow you to accomplish this with a few clicks. Use the System Properties screen in Windows XP or later to determine the speed of your computer's CPU.
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Instructions
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Windows XP and Newer
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Click the "Start" button.
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Click "Control Panel."
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3
Double-click "System." (If you do not see this icon, click the "Classic View" link on the left side of the window in Windows XP and Vista or "View by: Small icons" at the top of the window in Windows 7.) The speed of the processor is shown on this screen, generally under a category labeled "Processor" or "Computer." Look for a reading such as "2.20 GHz."
Pre-XP Windows Versions
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Browse to the CPUInfo download page.
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Click the "download cpuinfo.exe" link and save the file on the desktop.
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Launch "cpuinfo.exe" to display your CPU speed. The speed is displayed in MHz at the top of the window.
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Tips & Warnings
It is also possible to reach the System Properties screen in Windows by right-clicking the "Computer" or "My Computer" icon on the desktop, and clicking "Properties."
