April 1 conficker worm protection

[D]

Most likely. The average computer is really only made to last a couple of years at best. I tend to stay with my computer for several years though. The one I'm running now, I've had for... probably around 4 years I would guess. I'm about due for a 'new' system. Probably just a duo-core since the quads are still overblown on their pricing.

They are? Obviously you've not been paying much attention :p

I can build a Quad Core AMD Phenom with a decent MOBO for under $300 right now. So there :p

Its only the video card thats gonna add to that, depending on what you want video wise.

Oh sure, that doesn't include a new monitor or anything... but even adding a decent flat panel you're only looking at about $80-$100 difference between Quad Core and Dual Core, and that increase is from both CPU and MOBO price differences.

EDIT:
Forgot to mention I'm on the other side of the leaving it on all the time issue. I leave my systems (all 11 of them) on ²⁴⁄₇ and just turn off monitors. And some of these machines are OLD. I have a 486DX running. Though thats just used as a hardware firewall