Where/ How can I ...

[Tha Boss]

learn step by step how to rebuild/upgrade a computer? I recently came across one and that machine is OLDDDDD!!!!!. I dont know jack squat about how the computer works and what-not...so to reiterate......is there anyway way for me (a hard working youth in corporate america who doesnt know anything technical stuff about computers) to learn how to upgrade and/or rebuild it step by step....or should i just take it to a porfessional?

[TimPoet]

Do it yourself. It is a lot more fun and a lot less expensive.

Try starting here:
http://www.pcmech.com/show/build/389/

[pam123]

You have a problem.
Tech goes fast and relying on what you learned form an old machine can be death on a newer one.
So read this : http://mysuperpc.com/

And then comeback with more questions.
The build article on this sight is good but a little outdated.
If you get PCGamer "the Vede's" build list is good.
You'll find, if you're willing, that Gamespot, PC Magazine, PC World, MaximumPC, and ExtremeTech, all have good "how to" articles ( they're all on-line ).
If you feel happier with books then the latest edition of : Building a PC for Dummies or Building the Ultimate Game PC , Mark L. Chambers or Loyd Case, will be an effective guide.
Read the web articles and read the books, they will explain lots of things and if they aren't clear we'll be happy to add to them and, after doing your homework, you'll know why we're telling you whatever we are.
As for getting it wrong; if you found this place then you know that you post your specs here and you'll get plenty of help.
Welcome to PCMech.