Modern storage devices offer advanced features such as self-monitoring, analysis and reporting technologies (SMART) to ensure users’ data security and optimize device performance. However, third-party software used to read and analyze SMART data can sometimes be misleading. Therefore, it is a more reliable approach to use original software from the manufacturer when performing a disk health check.
What is SMART Data?
SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a system used to monitor the health data provided by a hard disk drive (HDD) or solid state drive (SSD). This data is intended to predict disk failures and assess the overall health of the drive. However, correctly interpreting this data is critical to understanding the true performance and health of the device.
Limitations of Third Party Software
Crystaldiskinfo and similar third-party software are often noted for their user-friendly interfaces and extensive data reading capabilities. However, these software can display altered or fake information in order to mislead the brand and model of the drive. For example, a user can use such software to hide the real features of the drive by printing a fake brand or model label on the drive. Such situations can cause users to make decisions about their devices based on false information.
Advantages of Original Software
Original software from the manufacturer usually provides more accurate and reliable data. Since these software work with the specific algorithms and data reading methods provided by the disk manufacturer, they can better evaluate the performance and health of the disk. For example:
- Advanced Analysis: Original software uses up-to-date and detailed analysis methods provided by disk manufacturers. This way, potential problems on the disk can be detected at an earlier stage.
- Firmware Updates: Firmware updates also include disk firmware updates. These updates can improve disk performance and fix known bugs.
- Data Security: Genuine software helps maintain the integrity of user data while monitoring disk health. This minimizes the risk of data loss.
Conclusion
When performing a disk health check, it is always recommended as a best practice to use original software from the manufacturer to minimize the risk of counterfeiting. This approach provides insight into the actual performance and health status of the disk and increases the security of your device. It is critical that users make decisions based on reliable and accurate data to learn about the health of their disks. Original software protects users from misleading information by providing the most accurate and trustworthy sources in this regard.