Building a computer is actually much easier than one may think. Many folks will end up running into issues when buying pieces while not knowing if they will work together or not. Building a great computer can be very fulfilling, but without some general knowledge of pairing parts together it can be a stressful disaster that deters one from building again.
The processor will need the same socket type as a motherboard or it will simply not be able to fit in. Given that the CPU is the most significant piece, it is good to decide on which to buy and base the rest of the system off first. If the socket of the processor is an AM3+ for example, the motherboard can only support that socket and an AM3, AM2+ or AM2 will just not fit it. It is a bit more obvious, but the RAM will also have to be the same kind. Given that there is only one type of DDR3 slot and type of RAM apart from the laptop variant, any DDR3 module that is purchased will work with the DDR3 slots on the motherboard where it is mounted.
Even though most motherboards still support older IDE drives, it is important to make sure that everything is using the modern SATA devices. Although SATA is backwards compatible when it comes to speeds, it is very good to get a drive and a motherboard that support the newest 6.0 variant of the SATA technology. The DVD drive can support the higher speed too, but the technology simply is not fast enough to take full advantage and is not necessary.
Many system builds will not have to have a specialty power supply, but some will in certain circumstances. Computers with several graphics cards will require the same level of graphics card power plugs in order to run properly. Most rigged setups with splitters and converters will not work as appropriately as they should as they simply do not supply the same sort of power needed.
High speed networks are important, but often what comes on the motherboard will do for what is to be done. Communicating quicker and more efficiently is important in setups like cloud systems that must transfer a lot of info. Sometimes a Cisco GLC-T or other types of Cisco SFP modules can be the answer to bandwidth troubles. Money can be thrown away throughout the process if these items are not required, and as such it is important to do some research to see if that is needed.