what can I do to update my hp desktop, so it will be more current. or do I just have to get a new computer.
Depends on what you mean by "update". Update your OS? It depends on the system's CPU & RAM. Chances are probably 50/50 that you could update to Windows 7, & if you can upgrade to 7 you can (most likely) upgrade to 10. Microsoft should have a tool on their website, though, that will say whether or not you can upgrade to a new OS. Update the hardware? It depends on which particular HP model you have. They usually list the different options on the support site for that model.
what can I do to update my hp desktop, so it will be more current. or do I just have to get a new computer.
Depends on what you mean by "update". Update your OS? It depends on the system's CPU & RAM. Chances are probably 50/50 that you could update to Windows 7, & if you can upgrade to 7 you can (most likely) upgrade to 10. Microsoft should have a tool on their website, though, that will say whether or not you can upgrade to a new OS. Update the hardware? It depends on which particular HP model you have. They usually list the different options on the support site for that model.