Manage updates with the Download AppCNET Editors' review
A relatively new Web-based service we've seen more of lately is the driver maintenance site, a Web site that, for a fee, will scan your computer, identify incorrect or out-of-date drivers, and install the proper ones from a vast database of hardware and software drivers. One of them is PC Pitstop, which is both software and a Web site, www.pcpitstop.com. The visually intense site is both a storefront and a portal to forums, newsletters, and other information. It offers numerous free scans for various PC-related issues, all of which seem to lead to the same conclusion: you should get out your credit card.
To use PC Pitstop's services, you need to download Driver Alert, its free scanner tool. Driver Alert probes your system and returns a daunting list of fusty old drivers that simply can't cut it anymore. They're slowing down the team and need to be cut from the roster and replaced with vendor-fresh drivers. PC Pitstop can do that for you, and keep on doing it regularly, for a fee. Whether it's worth it or not depends on your PC maintenance skills, how much trouble you're having, and how much your time is worth.
Since nearly every PC has a few driver-related issues and many users lack the time or skill needed to update or reinstall their drivers, these sites make a good deal of sense for some. PC Pitstop is better than most of its competition. With all such sites, though, it's best to double-check their work yourself.
Publisher's Description
From PC Pitstop:
Driver Alert makes it easy, by matching the latest drivers to your system. The Driver Alert Notification Service will keep you abreast of the driver status of your PCs through the comfort of your inbox. Driver Alert now features DriverMatic technology that standardizes the packaging of the drivers, so that a new driver can be installed with the click of a button. No more reading README.TXT or installation instructions. Just click on the button, and Driver Alert takes care of the rest. Now that drivers have been standardized, you can also automatically keep your drivers up to date in the background. Version 2.0 features DriverMatic technology.
What's new in this version: Version 2.0 features DriverMatic technology.
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All versions:
3.6 starsout of 12 votes
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Current version:
3.6 starsout of 12 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"I would NOT recommend."
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
Pros,I don't know as there are any.
Cons
I tried it awhile ago, and thought it to be worthless... I mean the paid for version. The free scan is like all free scans, if they even work as advertised, you must still buy their software for them to be of any value. Reading the other reviews, this is still worthless.
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"Identifies drivers - needs another program to download"
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
nice display
Cons
requires additional program or subscription to actually obtain needed drivers
Summary
knowing a driver is out of date and not being allowed to correct the problem make the program of marginal use.
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"Good at what it does"
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
Neat & efficient. Can usually be relied upon.
Cons
Causes problems when unable to download/install an upgrade properly
Summary
OK for the money
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"just like most online systems they are after your money"
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
Works ok at getting some of the basic drivers
Cons
misses a lot of the harder drivers. Even put a few wrong drivers causing my system to crash
Summary
Don't do it
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"Surprising good app"
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
Found all the drivers that needed updating and with just a click, the drivers were updated. No searching on manufacturers' website which can be confusing if you don't know exactly which driver you need.
Cons
Haven't found anything I don't like.
Summary
I would recommend this product to any beginner or intermediate computer user. No muss, no fuss.
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"Keeps me up to date."
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
It's free and works.
Cons
I spend 1/2 my time just updating.
Summary
This product helps me maintain my files up to date.
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"This program has been a time saver."
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
PDA 2.0 has been accurate and timely in all of the drivers it has found for me.
Cons
I have one computer listed twice and can not find out how to remove it from my list.
Summary
Prior to installing vista on my sony laptop, my dvd/cdrw worked fine. Then along came vista and the dvd/cdrw ceased to function. It did not even cross my mind to update the driver. Prior to purchasing a new dvd/cdrw I tried the driver program. It advised me to update this driver. Upon doing so my device began working. This saved me money and brought all of my drivers up to date. I also like the fact that I can use it on several computers.
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"Fantastic program"
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
Easy to use and very accurate
Cons
nothing to say against this program
Summary
I just find this program works very well and helps keep my computer healthy
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"Excellent Program"
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
finds al new drivers
Cons
There is not a single thing that I do not like about this program
Summary
Finds and installs all new drivers, fast and easy.
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"Informs me of updated drivers"
Version: PC Pitstop Driver Alert 2.0
Pros
Clear and concise
Cons
It cost you to have full functionality
Summary
Clear and simple to use
