So how do I get my computer running faster?

[Zoris]

I tried to benchmark my new system (specs in sig) using aquamark 3.

I got only 50,979, which seems to be a low score from what I've seen.

I then increased my CPU speed from 2GHz to 2.25GHz (even though I don't know what I'm doing) and it went up to 85,844. I'm guessing it worked..

So is this normal, and how can I get it to run faster?

Its my only computer, I don't want to do anything that could potentially damage it in the next 3~4 years.

[HousERaT]

You went from 50K to 85K by adding 250Mhz to your system? Well the art of overclocking means you'll be overclocking the memory, the cpu and the video card if you want all around systems gains. For what we do here in the Benchmarking teams everything has to be run at maximum performance to get the best scores. My suggestion for right now would be to check out the CPU section and start learning how to overclock. You should have the basics down in no time.

[El<(')>Maxi]

Overclocking is basically about a few simple things.

1) Cooling
2) Voltage
3) Config

With alot of todays hardware you can increase clocks without ever raising voltages. You need to start off by learning how overclocking is done, with both processors and graphics cards. Learn the BIOS of your system board, learn how to monitor system temperatures and how to test system performance both before and after an overclock. We can help you out here but you really should do some reading first to get an idea of the basics, there is a ton of info here on the forums that will help you, just dive in.