Is Intel Rapid Storage Technology Software needed?  

Page 1 of 2 12 LastLast
  1.    #1

    Is Intel Rapid Storage Technology Software needed?


    I generally avoid HD bloatware during reinstalls or while cleaning up bloatware unless they have a specific function (SMART monitoring) that the user wants running.

    However it's recently been brought up that Intel Rapid Storage Technology software should be running when it's controller is selected.

    I'm asking opinions if there are specfic reasons this software needs to be installed and running in addition to the iastor.sys driver.

    Thanks for your input.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 10,994
    Win 7 Pro 64-bit
       #2

    Good question, Greg.

    What is Intel Rapid Storage Technology? Do I need it?

    From Intel:

    Whether using one or multiple hard drives, users can take advantage of enhanced performance and lower power consumption. When using more than one drive, the user can have added protection against data loss in the event of a hard drive failure.
    Source
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 562
    Windows 7 Professional x64 SP1
       #3

    I would say that if you are only using an SSD for caching, you need to install it. Otherwise, for RAID setup of multiple hard drives, use your BIOS. There's no need for Intel RST software aside from SSD caching.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 5,795
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64 SP1
       #4

    I thought I've read on here that installing the software is a quick and easy way to ensure the Intel AHCI drivers are being used, which makes a difference in SSD performance.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 25,847
    Windows 10 Pro. 64/ version 1709 Windows 7 Pro/64
       #5

    Greg great question. Many people have a problem with it. I have Intel System with AHCI SSD and I can't find IRST on my computer. If some one could tell me how to check if I got it I'm willing to look again. Things just might work without it.
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 5,795
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64 SP1
       #6

    Layback Bear said:
    If some one could tell me how to check if I got it I'm willing to look again.
    It's an installed program. It would show up in your Start Menu and your list of installed programs in the Control Panel. If you have it, it's because you would have installed it.
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 25,847
    Windows 10 Pro. 64/ version 1709 Windows 7 Pro/64
       #7

    Thanks Deacon Frost. I have looked as you suggested and I don't have it and things work just fine. I don't use raid. I hope that helps Greg. SSD C: operating system and a hard drive with 2 partitions E and F.
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 12,177
    Windows 7 Ult x64 - SP1/ Windows 8 Pro x64
       #8

    The RST accompanying software, Intel Control Center and Intel Rapid Storage (programs), are definitely optional. They can be un-installed from the control panel.

    There are other software from Intel that may be required like, Intel® Smart Response Technology, which may be required for mSATA connected SSDs to be used as a caching device. You'll see more of these, they are on new Ivy Bridge motherboards and laptops.
    This is new hardware functionality and I'm not 100% sure if the software is required. I would assume there are other ways to turn on/off the required services.

    All OEMs using Intel CPUs have the Intel RST drivers on their driver/support sites, some of them may include the programs.
    Custom built systems will usually have the default Windows msachi driver. You will find Intel RST drivers listed on the motherboard driver/support site.
    The RST drivers can also be used for non-RAID systems.
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 50,642
    Thread Starter
       #9

    Thanks guys for the great information.

    This is proving again why it's best in Win7 to stick with the drivers delivered by the Win7 installer and quickly updated via optional Windows Updates - unless there are performance problems which can be traced to a driver.
      My Computer


  10. Posts : 25,847
    Windows 10 Pro. 64/ version 1709 Windows 7 Pro/64
       #10

    Just for you Greg.

    Is Intel Rapid Storage Technology Software needed?-just-greg..png
      My Computer


 
Page 1 of 2 12 LastLast

  Related Discussions
Our Sites
Site Links
About Us
Windows 7 Forums is an independent web site and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Microsoft Corporation. "Windows 7" and related materials are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

© Designer Media Ltd
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 23:42.
Find Us