I need some computer advice

[Jeeqbit]

Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-7700K CPU @ 4.20GHz 4.20 GHz

Alright, so the processor could be upgraded to reach FFXIV's recommended one, but their minimum requirement is going to be Intel Core i7-6700 so it is at least higher than that.

I would have agreed with you until I started really struggling in NMS and started noticing some chugging in FFXIV (ie stuff goes off and I don't see it until it is too late to get out of it) and load screens taking way longer than they should.

While a faster processor or other components can slightly help with that to reduce bottlenecking, you will usually flat out eliminate that problem entirely by getting an SSD. This is especially known to help for events with large amounts of players such as hunts and FATEs.

SSDs are also known for giving instant load times, but SE also redid their loading code so that it doesn't have to wait for players to load before you can move when the PS5 version was being released.