[ The PC Guide | System Optimization and Enhancement Guide | Overclocking: The Dissenting Opinion | Introduction to Overclocking ]

What is Overclocking?

In terms of a definition, overclocking is quite simple: it refers to changing the settings of a computer system so that the hardware runs at a faster speed than the manufacturer rated it for. Every piece of hardware in a computer system is tested and is supposed to be rated to run at a particular clock speed. When you overclock, you change the settings of the hardware so that it runs faster than what the manufacturer originally intended. Overclocking is also sometimes called pushing or speed margining.

There are many different ways that a system can be overclocked, depending on what part of the system you are looking to "push". The most common component is the system processor, but there are in fact several different ways to overclock a system.

Next: Why Is Overclocking Even Possible?

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