Upgrading CPU--what do I tell Windows?

I'm thinking of upgrading my CPU to a faster model.

Is there some setting I need to set in Windows for this?

Or will Windows just recognize the new CPU automatically when it boots up?

Good and unusual question we don't see here much.

I've never swapped processors without also changing the motherboard, rebuilding from the ground up, and reinstalling Windows.

My guess would be that you don't have to do anything---assuming the new CPU is in fact fully compatible with the version of Windows that you are currently using. Just swap it out and remount the CPU cooler with fresh paste.

Might be a good idea to reset the BIOS to defaults?

Let others comment.

And it may be necessary to re-Activate Windows due to the hardware change of identity.

I swapped CPU on the same mobo once only, and all I had to do was reinstalling Intel chipset Driver.
So if your mobo is on Intel chipset you might have to do the same.

I just upgraded my computer from Intel 5 to Intel 7. Last week and had to do nothing but update my email. Everything worked and still does,fine.

first make sure the cpu you want will work with your motherboard.. go to the motherboard web site and check to see if the cpu you want will work with the board, you cant just put any cpu you want in... also if you tell us the specs of your system we will be able to help you out more,