What is overclock?

[PurpaFur]

I'm new to the computer world, so could someone tell me what overclocking is, how it is useful, and how to do it? Also, what temperature should I be shooting for on my AMD FX 4350 Quad Core 4.2 4, and how do I measure said temperature?

 

[LeonardKonrad]

The purpose of overclocking is to increase the operating speed of given hardware. The trade-offs are an increase in power consumption and fan noise, the system can become unstable if the equipment is overclocked too much, and the risk of damage due to excessive over voltage or heat generation. In extreme cases, costly and complex cooling (e.g., water cooling) is required.
If you are new to computer world, don't bother about this. Overclocking is an advance topic.
Temperature and other will will take by your PC it self.

 

[PurpaFur]

I should say I am new to the computer building world, but overall I know a bit about computers and functions. I am considering OC'ing, just how is it done?

 

[Route44]

Go here and read slowly and carefully: http://www.overclockers.com/forums/

This is a great site that deals with overclocking. keep in mind that once you overclock any piece of hardware the warranty becomes null and void.