Good machine for the money

First of all, I don't yet see the great advantage of dual-core. It doesn't make my programs run faster. It doesn't make my games load more quickly. So what am I missing?

First off, the machine is pretty well equipped with USB 2.0 ports, firewire, media reader, etc. I am no computer expert so please note that when reading this. It comes with Vista Home Premium. It still runs like an albetross, like my old P4 did, but much prettier. I had the retailer (BB) do the optimization for $20 bucks or so, which was a waste. So far I like the computer, but it's nothing special.