External Hard Drive

[Chuck Engels]

Yes, they will come with software already on the drive.
Some if it is trial stuff others may include backup software and installation files.
You can get rid of everything.

[jackfalbey]

Some if it is trial stuff others may include backup software and installation files.
You can get rid of everything.

WD drives typically come with backup, synchronization, and drive management software. It's a good idea to reformat the drive to NTFS; you can re-download any of the preloaded software here: http://support.wdc.com/download/index.asp?cxml=n&pid=36. Unless it's connected by eSATA, the preloaded software is unnecessary (see this thread viewtopic.php?f=4&t=2379). WD's Data Lifeguard software is pretty useful and isn't a resource hog, but it basically just duplicates tasks you can do with XP, but in a friendlier interface.

[Bob D]

MY WD drive came with a set up application. It basically asked me if I wanted google desktop and some other junk. I made sure none of that was checked and let it go. Basically not much happened. When I reformated to NTFS it warned about data on the drive. I looked at the folders and basically decided that it could all go. So far, not problems with the drive. I've been putting stuff on it all weekend. It did not have backup softeware with it.

I did also purchase a Seagate Freeagent 750gb yesterday too ($199-20%+tax). Price was a bit cheaper than my WD and I believe it comes with backup software. This way I can backup what I have on my WD and be aable to sleep at night.

EDIT: Just saw the Seagate drive on Officemax.com for $128(USD) with coupon of OFFICE (+tax). Needless to say I ordered this and the store bought one will be going back.

Bob D

[Bobby]

Make a folder on your C: drive and just move or copy the files and folders from the ext HD to that. Then you can reformat.

I never use the supplied software anyhow, so no issue for me.

Bob