Freeware driver back-up utility DriverMax gets a full point upgrade, but the big feature promised for this version doesn't seem to be quite ready for prime time. DriverMax Agent, which is supposed to bulk out the program with a customizable driver update check, currently only works on the Windows Vista 32-bit operating system. Sorry, XP users.
DriverMax Agent works well on Windows Vista--but not at all on Windows XP.
(Credit: CNET Networks)The irony of this product update coming during a week when Redmond has spectacularly backtracked on Vista isn't lost on me.
The agent does seem to work well on Vista, in so far as I can both manually check if my drivers are out of date and have the agent automatically scan for new ones. However, none of my Vista drivers were out of date, so I was unable to test the download and installation features.
(Credit:
CNET Networks)
Other than the agent, there's nothing new in the program. It feels like it runs a bit faster from when I last looked at it back in October, but that's empirical and hasn't been benchmarked. Without a doubt, DriverMax is a good program, with both driver backup and restoration features, and those work well. Until the Agent is extended to Windows XP users, though, there's not much that sets it apart from its freeware competitors.
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.
The application is nearly flawless. Its slick button navigation takes users through the four main sections of the program: Driver Operations, Updates, Identification, and Popular Hardware. Mousing over one reveals more choices, so you can export your drivers, import drivers, or view an installed drivers report. Backing up and reinstalling an "accidentally" deleted driver was as pain-free as could be, and users can back up all drivers or compile a customized list. Automatically updating your drivers currently doesn't work, and the free registration key requires your e-mail address--annoying, but worth suffering through to get these must-have features.
A great tool for when you're mucking about with reinstalling an operating system or just want to have several fail safes going is DriverMax, which backs up your drivers one at a time, a few at a time, or all at once. From registration to implementation, DriverMax works fast, runs smooth, and even does more than mere safe-checking.
... Read more
- prev
- 1
- next
