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How to Install a CPU on the Motherboard

4-Step Beginner's Guide to Safely Fitting an Intel or AMD Processor (& Photos)

Last Updated: February 8, 2023

Lastly, before we get straight into the CPU install steps, you'll notice the photos used in this CPU install guide show how to install a CPU onto the motherboard outside the case. But don't worry if you're installing a CPU inside the case (when your motherboard is already inside), as it's the same process.

2. Open the CPU Socket

To open up the CPU socket on the motherboard, you need to first lift up the retention arm (the small metal lever on the side of the socket). Unlock the retention arm by pulling it out to the right (away from the socket) so that it's free to then be lifted up. Lift the arm up all the way, and then open up the socket cover. Only Intel CPU sockets have covers - AMD sockets do not.

For installing AMD CPUs (AM4 socket) you also have a little retention arm to lift out to the side and then up, but there is no socket cover to open. Instead, when you lift the retention arm up to a 90 degree angle, it automatically opens up the middle of the socket to expose the middle.

Unlike Intel sockets, AMD sockets don't have covers. If you're wondering, this is because Intel CPUs have the actual contact pins on the motherboard, whereas AMD CPUs have the contact pins on the CPU itself.

3. Match Arrow and Lower CPU Into Socket

Before picking up your CPU, first look closely at the CPU socket and look for the small mark/icon in the bottom left corner. This indicates which way to install your CPU, as there will be an arrow on the CPU itself that goes in this corner:

Before grabbing your CPU, ground yourself by touching the metal part of your case or another metal object (if you're not using anti-static equipment like a wrist-strap or mat). It's also worth mentioning again that you shouldn't ever touch the bottom of the CPU. Avoid touching the top of the CPU too, as this is where the thermal paste of your CPU cooler will be so you want the surface as clean as possible).

There's only one correct position to install an Intel or AMD CPU into the socket - by placing it so that the arrow on the CPU matches the mark on the bottom left of the socket (as pictured above). You don't want to accidentally lower in the CPU in the wrong way, as you risk damaging/bending pins, so before lowering it in make sure you're aware of the arrow and which way to install it.

Be very careful not to drop the CPU, and slowly and carefully lower it into the socket as far as you can without letting go. When the CPU is fully lined up with the socket, you can very, very gently let it go and it will naturally fall into place. Do NOT force or push the CPU in - if you have lowered it in the correctly aligned way, it will effortlessly sit into place. To confirm it's fully installed, VERY gently try to nudge it a fraction to left or right. If it wasn't already properly seated, it will gently fall into place when you do this.

4. Lock the CPU Socket

FAQ

How fragile is a CPU?

CPUs are relatively delicate components and can be easily damaged if not handled carefully. They have many small pins that can bend or break if the CPU is dropped or subjected to excessive force (not all CPUs have pins on them though - the ones that don't will have pins on the motherboard's CPU socket instead).

Also, the internal components of a CPU are extremely small and can be damaged by static electricity, which can build up on your body and other objects. To avoid damaging your CPU, it's important to handle it only by the edges and to ensure that you are properly grounded to dissipate any static charge. When installing the CPU into a socket, it is important to take care not to bend or break any of the pins and to ensure that the CPU is properly seated and locked into place.

Do I need to install any software for the CPU?

No, you do not need to install any software or drivers specifically for a CPU. Modern CPUs are plug-and-play and automatically recognized by the operating system. However, in some cases, you may need to update the BIOS (basic input/output system) or UEFI (unified extensible firmware interface) to ensure compatibility with a new CPU that has been released after a certain motherboard model has (but only if the motherboard supports the CPU). Keep in mind you can update a BIOS without needing a CPU installed.

Can a damaged CPU still work?

A damaged CPU can still work, but it is likely to cause problems and may fail prematurely. Physical damage to the CPU such as bent pins, cracks, or other signs of physical damage can prevent the CPU from functioning properly. This can result in system instability, crashes, or even prevent the system from booting. Additionally, even if the CPU is functioning, the damaged pins can cause poor electrical connections, which can result in reduced performance or data errors. In general, it is recommended to replace a damaged CPU to ensure reliable and stable operation of your computer.

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