The processor or CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brains of the computer and is where most calculations take place. In terms of computing power, the CPU is the most important element of the computer.

CPUs come in different strengths. Intel Celeron processors are ideal for small business, home, and network workstations because of their low price and high performance. Intel Pentium II processors are ideal for small business, home, and network workstations because of their high performance and relatively low cost.

Intel Pentium III processors are ideal for the individual desktop user or network station that requires high performance. For true "industrial strength" processing power, the Intel Pentium III Xeon 500/550 processors are suitable for file servers, Web servers, and other applications involving large volumes of high-speed traffic.