Hey guys,

Ya'll know considerably more about technology than I do, so I am helping you can assist me. Google hasn't been that great...

I would like to upgrade my laptop (It's nearly 4 years old now so I think it's time for a new one).
Unfortunately I have no idea now days what to look for, what is considered low-spec, what is high spec?

Once upon a time I was a gamer, not a real gamer by most standards, just games like 'The Sims' etc.. but only do this occasionally now. I think I would still like something capable of running Sims 3 (for example)..

Mostly I use social networking, online tv/video/youtube. Skype, email, iTunes, Windows Media (unless someone can suggest a better free music player/cd burning program)..

The must haves are a webcam, dvd burner (or is it blu-ray now?) though this would be rarely used and I think I would prefer a Windows laptop over a Mac one, and of course, dedicated graphics & wi-fi/wireless lan.

Can you advise me of any brands/models you would recommend? And any particular retailer or website you would suggest, (or suggest I stay away from!) And, also, what do I need to look for in a laptop in terms of specs..

eg What processors are considered good/weak? (dual core, quad core, what Hz rating is good nowdays), minimum you'd recommend for dedicated graphics (incase I play the odd-game, I doubt I will have the time to get into hardcore gaming nowdays), how much RAM should I be looking for? 

Seriously, any advice you can offer would be hugely appreciated. As you probably figured, I don't upgrade my laptop all that often, so maybe a little bit of futureproofing (though I understand that this is a hard ask nowdays) may be something to consider also.

Thanks guys in advance for your assistance.