What does overclocking do to a processor?

Overclocking a processor involves running it at a faster clock speed than the manufacturer’s specified maximum. This action effectively increases the performance and processing speed of the CPU, allowing it to complete tasks more quickly. Users often undertake overclocking to gain additional performance for applications that are resource-intensive, such as gaming or rendering software, thereby pushing the processor beyond its default capabilities. This increase in clock speed can lead to faster calculations and improved overall system responsiveness, making it a popular practice among tech enthusiasts looking to enhance their system’s performance without upgrading the hardware.

The other options do not accurately describe the effects of overclocking. For instance, overclocking does not inherently reduce power consumption or maintain performance during high temperatures; in fact, it can increase power draw and the associated heat. Cooling efficiency is also not enhanced directly by overclocking; rather, better cooling solutions may be required to manage the increased thermal output resulting from higher speeds.