[Solved] CPU related performance issues?

Recently my system performance took a noticable turn for the worse. I think it has something to do with my CPU (AMD Phenom II X2 550 Black Edition) which I was overclocked when I noticed the problem. I ran a benchmark, and the numbers were significantly lower than what was listed as normal. I am considering returning the processor to AMD, but first I want to be absolutely certain that the CPU is the problem, and not the motherboard or something software related. Any suggestions?

Thanks

1.) Well, I'd suggest running some stability testing apps like Prime95 or memtest, to see if there actually is an instability issue.

2.) Check your temps (HWMonitor or PCWizard are good all around apps) as an overheating component will often downclock to save itself, and thus hurt performance.

3.) Have you done any major software installs/updates/changes recently?

4.) Did you run this benchmark beforehand to get the normal numbers, or is this just what the bench thinks is normal.

5.) Check your computer for Spyware/Adware. Some good apps if you don't already have them (free too) are MalwareBytes, Spybot S&D, and Ad aware.

6.) A good defrag never hurts (the ones included in XP and 7 are pretty good)

7.) Give the computer a good cleaning with CCleaner (software wise, that is), and do a quick check for dust build up.

Well, hopefully it helped. But, keep us posted and if you still seem to run into issues, we can try other things.