Quick question, maybe?

Well, I am getting new parts for my comp soon, and my current comp, and prior ones all ran Pentium Processors, and since I don't know anything about computers, I wanna know something.

Since I've been using Pentium, if I wanna get a new CPU that's an AMD, will that have a negative affect on my current HDD, software, and other drives? Or with it run like it always did after the switch?

if its a faster mhz then no

Short answer: Stick with your current processor.

Long answer: Depends, there'd be a lot of things to look out for. I'd invest some time into explaining it, but with no guarantee that the ensuing information wouldn't be incredibly discouraging; I'd rather not.

Ok, only reason I ask is because I got mixed replies from friends on whether I should get a Pentium or AMD, so then I wondered what switching to an AMD could do to my computer. Ideally I'd want to get which ever CPU I can afford and works better/effectively than the other.

AMD is the general go-to for cost versus value. Intel's higher-end CPUs are better though, if expensive.

Tegumi's right about those basic elements between amd and intel. however if your currently running a true pentium, your a couple generations behind the current trend. if you just want to get a little speed boost, find something that will fit your board and is on your boards approved processor list, a faster pentium.(you can find it on the manufacturer's website)

An idea of your processor model will help in figuring upgrade options. Also what is your budget? If you've only got a couple hundred to spend you're probably better off getting an AMD, but you will also require a new motherboard. If you have more I'd go for an intel model, and still you'll likely require a new motherboard. no current processor will work on an older pentium based board. Your current processor model is really needed to determine what you can do.

If your looking to upgrade your system to more current models, it will require you to purchase a new motherboard as well. Getting a new processor and motherboard, be it intel's core2 or coreI series or amd's new phenom procs, will require you to reactivate your windows install. It's a simple process that often just requires a phone call to their activation center. Tell them that you had a major hardware change and they will give you new activation instructions.

You really should track down what your current specs are. Here's why:

Intel Pentium 3-4 "generation" used AGP slot for videocards, (typically) DDR 1 memory, and PATA (AKA IDE) interface to connect hard drives and CD/DVD optical drives.

Intel Dual Core/Core 2 "generation" uses PCI-E (PCI express) slot for videocards, DDR 2 and lately DDR 3 RAM (...each with a different slot, not compatible with DDR 1 or the other) and SATA interface to connect hard drives and CD/DVD optical drives.

...and if you have a really old PSU without an auxiliary (4-6 pin) power connector, you might have to buy a new one too as most newer mohterboards won't even start without the extra juice.

You main question should be this:
-What do I use the PC for?
-How long will I use the PC for these purposes?
-Will I upgrade it and how much will I spend on it during its lifetime?

AMD systems are cheaper, but right now they're at the end of their support cycle and no new processors will be made for them... they're also the cheapest and have good overclocking potential.

New Intel systems come in two flavours - LGA 1156 and LGA 1366. The first has a really wide number of processors availible for it, so you're bound to be able to upgrade for a while. On the other hand, it's about to be outphased by the high-end LGA 1366 ...which is expensive and only supports the newest and therefore most expensive CPUs.

Guys, I'm relatively certain they mean "Intel", not "Pentium". Most people'll look at the the processor series and assume that is the company that makes it.

I am aware that I need to get a new motherboard etc, and have already planned (income wise) for that. Just my main concern was that "if" I get a AMD instead of continuing with Pentium, will it prove to be a problem with my current drives and software? I got one answer already, and that was that I'd have to reactivate my windows, but what about any other programs or drives?

No. The only thing is the windows activation. All your other software will work just as it did before.

As far as hard drives/CD drives etc. you should be fine since most motherboards have both IDE and SATA connectors on them now.

You're better off doing a clean installation after overhauling your computer.
As windows tends to get messy when you've made some significant changes to your system.
Make sure you back up your critical data ect ect.