Smart Driver Updater

Pros

• Extensive driver database
• Fast system search
• Good safety features

Cons

• No updates possible with the free version
• New drivers are not checked for compatibility

Smart Driver Updater is a utility that can help to keep all the drivers on a computer current. The application solves a real problem. Drivers are not always automatically updated. They can become out-of-date quickly. This could degrade performance, harm a computer and cause conflicts with new drivers or programs. Smart Driver Updater is free to download on a trial basis although it is a commercial application that must be purchased to work correctly. The program is small, fast and is updated on a regularly.

Smart Driver Updater performs only a few different functions. The interface is clean, clear and attractive. A main display area shows information or the results of the current operation. Five tabs run across the top of the window allowing for fast navigation between areas. The tabs are scan, backup, downloads, settings and information about the application. Despite the simplicity of the program, a comprehensive help section is included. The help files cover everything from the reason someone would need the application to how to use even the most basic controls effectively.

The first thing that Smart Driver Updater will do when activated is scan the condition of the current system. This occurs even with the free trial version. Fortunately, the program knows exactly where to look for drivers. This makes the scan go quickly on most systems. It completes in just a few seconds even when there are hundreds of drivers available. The program will then report how many drivers were found and how many need to be updated. The main window will provide a detailed list of the different drivers that require updating. Users then have the option to start downloading the new drivers.

Smart Driver Updater uses a database compiled by the developers to determine whether drivers are current and where the current version is located. The database contains over 200,000 different driver entries. The application will use this database to start downloading and installing the new drivers. This process can take some time, especially if connection speeds are slow or the drivers are exceptionally large. The entire process of updating the drivers happens automatically although users can choose specific drivers not to update if necessary.

Safety is a big concern when dealing with drivers on a computer. Smart Driver Updater encourages safe actions from users. It asks whether a system restore point should be created before starting the updating process. The application also has the option to back up drivers before making changes. A second option allows the drivers to be restored if something goes wrong.

Smart Driver Updater has only one drawback. It lacks individual detail when dealing with drivers. The program cannot distinguish whether updating a driver will affect the current hardware on the computer. Additionally, the program will not do anything but scan a computer unless it is purchased. Smart Driver Updater is good and useful program for people who want to keep drivers current.

Pros

• Extensive driver database
• Fast system search
• Good safety features

Cons

• No updates possible with the free version
• New drivers are not checked for compatibility