Windows 7: 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.

Good question, Greg.

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

From Intel:

Source

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Thanks guys for the great information.

This is proving again why it's best in Windows 7 to stick with the drivers delivered by the Windows 7 installer and quickly updated via optional Windows Updates - unless there are performance problems which can be traced to a driver.

Just for you Greg.