Computer processors are the central hub for all data storage and transfer within government and educational networks. Without the right CPUs, no amount of outside third party applications or upgrades will provide an agency any advantage. However, the right replacement CPU will allow an agency to upgrade... its system without a great deal of replacement hardware. From notebooks to desktops, computer processors provide the power for all audio/visual applications, connectivity formats, and the security and durability measures that a network can handle.
AMD and Intel are the market leaders in the CPU industry. These two companies are industry standard and have the most third party application support for expansions and add-ons. Both companies have a wide variety of CPUs that are meant for different types of government and educational offices. For instance, the Intel Xeon and the AMD Opteron CPUs provide the ultimate in high performance data storage and transfer. However, an agency that does not need this type of power can invest in a smaller, scalable solution such as the Celeron or Athlon processor.
Perhaps the most important characteristic when choosing new computer processors for an agency, should be the ability of that CPU to handle the maximum performance levels required during the busiest parts of a year. If an agency has a need for multi-stream data functionality, parallel computing, or remote functionality, it should invest in the higher efficiency computer processors.