Dell Support v2 - Why do we need it?

Question

I have just installed the new Dell Support v2 software and I am wondering if there is any reason to keep it.   As far as I can see all it does it provide links to the Dell Website.   If it could actually check what dell SW I have installed and come back when something new had been release that I should download, the it might be worth while, but as it doesn't appear to do this I can not see the point of it?   Does it do anything else that is worth while running it all the time?

Alexandra_P · Answer

I have yet to find anything in there that can't be found with a little bit of navigating. IMHO, it's not a bad tool if you're a relatively new user and not used to tracking down all your own updates, system info, etc. I got my first PC in 1994 and am used to tracking stuff down the hard way, so I deactivated the thing about 10 minutes after I got it.

Edit: I actually feel pretty lucky it didn't actually cause me any problems, like it did for lots of other people (pop-up folders, wireless conflicts, etc.).

Message Edited by Alexandra_P on 11-12-2007 04:12 PM

joe53 · Answer

I agree with all Alexandra_P says.   For those that find it useful, I would strongly recommend disabling it from start-up, and access it only as needed.   I can't recall the last time a Dell Support product has generated so many problems and posts, but this version clearly needs some fixing. Apparently there is a new version coming that addresses many of these problems.

Tony Burke · Answer

The 'New' version (2.0.07311)- which I have (unfortunately) installed - seems to have as many problems as any other. I have been browsing the Forums about Dell Support Center and it doesn't make for pretty reading.

joe53 · Answer

I agree.   This program is not yet ready for prime time. I uninstalled it.

Alexandra_P · Answer

Hmm - a tool designed for the average user,  that practically requires an MCSE to fix when you install it and it doesn't behave.  Unless, of course, you just get rid of it like many of us did. Tony, I read your last post in the 'Just Installed'  thread and it pretty much says it all.   Maybe I'm just not tech-savvy enough to 'get it', but I still haven't figured why Dell wants it to be an installed program/service, when strictly Web-based plug-ins (e.g, Crucial for memory, Trend Micro for spyware, DriverGuide for drivers, etc.) seem to be able to do about everything short of my dirty dishes.

Tony Burke · Answer

Why do we need it ? - Like a hole in the head. If this software was an automobile or a child's toy or a chocolate bar with design problems it would be withdrawn from the market with profuse apologies to all. The Support Centre was pre-loaded when the PC was bought and the updated version was downloaded on the advice and instructions of Dell. In these circumstances surely Dell have a responsibility to address the issues and problems. HELLO DELL !! IS THERE ANYBODY THERE ?!!!!

Tony Burke · Answer

A Post Script to my previous postings - While I don't take back anything I said about the Software - As a result of an Email to Dell I had a phone call this morning from a Dell Rep. (in India!!). I allowed him remote access to my PC and he uninstalled and reinstalled the Support Center.It seems to be working OK now - but just in case - Watch This Space!!!

Tony Burke · Answer

A Post Script to my Post Script !! - While all the Support Center modules are now working most of the time I am still sometimes finding that clicking on links in the Center gives a message 'No Internet Connection Detected - unable to detect a working Internet connection' - this despite the fact that I have a Broadband always-on connection!

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