Determining compatibility between your motherboard and central processing unit (CPU) is an easy task. The main consideration is making sure your motherboard and CPU have the same socket type for the processor.
Sockets and Manufacturers
There are two main manufacturers for CPUs, AMD and Intel. Each has many different socket types based on the most recent technology available. Every few years on average they release a new socket type to accommodate newer, faster and better processors. Your motherboard and CPU are compatible if they have the same socket type.
Backwards Compatibility
Some newer socket types are compatible with older types. For instance, AMD's socket "AM3" processors will run on an "AM2+" motherboard with a simple BIOS update. However, an "AM2+" CPU will not run on an "AM3" motherboard. Compatibility and socket types are always listed in a motherboard's specifications, so check to make sure before you purchase.
AMD
AMD socket types include A (aka Socket 462), 754, 939, AM2, AM2+ and AM3.
Intel
Intel socket types include LGA775, LGA1366 and LGA1156.
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