#Wd drive utilities drive erase full
#Wd drive utilities drive erase portable

In order to access the Device Manager, head to the Start Menu through the Task Bar and click “Control Panel.” Select “Hardware,” then select the Device Manager from the available list. Navigate to the machine’s Device Manager. This process is meant for Microsoft Windows OS users. The virtual disk will no longer load when the drive is connected.

This process will not regain lost storage on the disk and simply makes the partition and the virtual drive that loads from it disappear. Note: This method does not delete the SmartWare from the WD drive, but simply prevents it from loading. Removing the WD SmartWare prevents these resources from being consumed while the drive is connected to the system. Memory and CPU use can easily be overwhelmed when the SmartWare is on the WD drive. Resource Usage – When the SmartWare is loaded, it takes up a sizable portion of the computer’s resources. The drive may be an eyesore for those who keep the hard drive loaded on their system and it normally cannot be removed easily. Linux based systems can also see the partition, but cannot make changes to the partition due to the drive’s onboard hardware. Virtual Drive Appearance – The virtual drive loads onto both Windows and Apple computers’ desktops. Therefore, less than a gigabyte to more than a few gigabytes are missing on the main partition due to the hidden partition and software that are included. The software is located on a hidden drive partition, which removes a reasonable amount of storage capacity.

#Wd drive utilities drive erase full

Storage Capacity – A hard drive that has SmartWare on it no longer has full storage capacity. The most common reasons for removing SmartWare are: The WD SmartWare may also be useless to some users who may want to remove it. WD hard drives with SmartWare also have some utilities that some users will find useful if their computer can support them.

The SmartWare can provide backup solutions that may not be available with the operating system in use. Modern Western Digital drives come with a firmware called “SmartWare,” which can be useful to some users.

#Wd drive utilities drive erase portable

Western Digital (WD) Portable Hard Drives are capable of storing quite a bit of information.