CNET Editors' review
Behind a slick interface, this program backs up all your PC's drivers in case you mess up something fierce. From registration to implementation, DriverMax works fast, runs smooth, and does even more than mere backing up.
When you run the app, it asks you if you'd like to run the trial version or apply for a registration key. The key is free, though, requiring only an e-mail address and your name. Once you've entered the key, the program interface appears, with slick button navigation: Driver Operations, Updates and Identification, and Popular Hardware. Mousing over one reveals more choices, so you can export your drivers, import drivers, or view an installed drivers report.
Updates lets you update both the DriverMax software and the drivers themselves, although as of this writing there is a warning label on the DriverMax Web site that downloads are not currently functioning. The program can also identify unknown hardware and point you in the direction of popular hardware options, pointing users to a compilation of statistics about different video cards and processors.
The strongest features, though, relate to driver backup and reinstalls. They function smoothly, offering users the option to back up all drivers or compile a customized list. Reinstalling an "accidentally" deleted driver was as pain-free as could be. As of the version 4.4 update, the DriverMax Agent, which automatically scans for driver updates, works in Windows XP and Windows Vista 32-bit, but not 64-bit. This is a great utility tool that should appeal to newbies, advanced hackers, and everybody in between.
Publisher's Description
From Innovative Solutions:
DriverMax is a powerful free utility which helps you download, update, backup and restore the drivers installed on your Windows PC. It automatically checks for more recent driver versions and identifies and installs missing drivers for unknown devices in your computer. Download all drivers from one place in just a few easy steps and keep your PC up to date. Backup drivers and keep all of them in one compressed file; restore them at a mouse click within a few minutes. This tool will save you a lot of time when reinstalling Windows, both on recent PCs and older computers for which the original CDs containing the drivers have been lost. You no longer have to track down old driver installation CDs, insert one installation CD after another or spend hours searching for drivers on the Internet. DriverMax is able to display a detailed report about all installed drivers (versions, release dates) and provide you with Windows Experience Index rating information before you purchase new hardware.
What's new in this version: Version 6.15 solves a few minor interface bugs.
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All versions:
3.4 starsout of 1,157 votes
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Current version:
3.5 starsout of 8 votes
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My rating:
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Results 1-8 of 8
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"I was skeptical at first, but really works for Win 7!!!"
Version: DriverMax 6.15
Pros
I downloaded this program and was at first afraid install programs so delicate as changing Family Controlers and Chipsets. That, I know from past bad experience, can be hair pulling. I went ahead, after saving all my previous drivers on backup, and downloaded all 14 drivers it said were out of date. I then proceeded to install them all and rebooted my PC. Lo and behold! Everything went perfect! I then went into my system and double checked to see if all the drivers were updated and they were and everything runs smoothly. This is the best driver updater program I have ever found. I have go to the Pro version because I really trust it. You have the option to rollback if something does not work, but I did not have to. Thanks a lot DriverMax! Your the best!
Cons
How come I did not hear about you sooner?
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"It worked as advertised"
Version: DriverMax 6.15
Pros
Free and it works
Cons
Limit of 2 free downloads per day
Summary
I have used this product for about 6 months. At first I updated 2 drivers every other day (their days don't seem to match with my clock). After my system was up to date I forgot it until it popped up saying there were new drivers, which I updated.
IMHO: It works and its free so the 2 limit isn't that big a deal. -
"Very dangerous"
Version: DriverMax 6.15
Pros
It identifies lots of driver but, unfortunately, ones that were not compatible with my system!
Cons
Identified drivers that were not applicable to my system and rendered it unusable.
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"This product provides an excellent result."
Version: DriverMax 6.15
Pros
This program has been completely overhalled. It was great before and is even better now. It provides backup service for your drivers and provides update service to keep your computer at its best.
Cons
There is nothing negative about this product.
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"Solid program, minor irritations but still worth it."
Version: DriverMax 6.15
Pros
Very easy way to update drivers, particularly ones you may not have thought to go searching for.
Cons
Sometimes doesn't recognize that it has already updated certain drivers (though it isn't hard to put these on the 'ignore' list).
Summary
Well worth having. Minor irritations aside, it is a great product.
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"No complaints"
Version: DriverMax 6.15
Pros
Worked smooth on my Vista Dual Core.
Cons
2 driver downloads per day. Not really an issue.
Summary
Every thing worked as advertised. If you don't like the 2 downloads per day limit then try slim driver.
Can't say anything bad about DriverMax based on my experience. And it's free. Thank you Driver Max. -
"very poor support"
Version: DriverMax 6.15
Pros
when it works its very good but if it dosent you have a hard time trying to get THEM to pull thier figer out and fix it, feels like it has NO priority to them. Try slimdriver.
Cons
When it works its good
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"Free - you get what you pay for. I hope paid is better"
Version: DriverMax 6.15
Pros
Free - you get what you pay for. I hope the paid version is better; I've crashed once already. I don't mind the two-a-day. Once I'm up-to-date it'll be fine.
Cons
It suggested software for hardware I don't have and still installs in startup. I crashed once, had to kill the install of another because it just ran forever. No crash report was submitted for this. It remains to be seen how useful it is.
Summary
Overall, OK so far - we'll see if it's useful.
Results 1-8 of 8
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