This article provides information about the EVGA RAID Driver 9.64 for Windows XP 64-bit, a crucial component for users of EVGA motherboards utilizing RAID configurations under the now-legacy Windows XP 64-bit operating system. While Windows XP is no longer supported by Microsoft and is considered a security risk for modern internet use, some users may still require this driver for specific hardware configurations or legacy systems.
This document will detail the purpose of RAID drivers, the specific features and potential benefits of EVGA RAID Driver 9.64, and provide important considerations for those who still need to install or update this driver on their systems. We’ll also provide a download link and alternative download options.
Understanding RAID and RAID Drivers
RAID, or Redundant Array of Independent Disks, is a data storage virtualization technology that combines multiple physical disk drive components into one or more logical units for the purposes of data redundancy, performance improvement, or both. Different RAID levels exist, each offering a unique balance between these characteristics. Common RAID levels include RAID 0 (striping for performance), RAID 1 (mirroring for redundancy), RAID 5 (striping with parity for redundancy and performance), and RAID 10 (a combination of RAID 1 and RAID 0).
To implement a RAID configuration, the operating system needs to be able to communicate with the RAID controller. This is where RAID drivers come in. RAID drivers act as an intermediary between the operating system and the RAID controller, allowing the OS to recognize and utilize the RAID array as a single logical drive. Without the correct driver, the operating system will not be able to properly access the RAID array, rendering the configuration useless.
The Purpose of EVGA RAID Driver 9.64
The EVGA RAID Driver 9.64 is specifically designed for EVGA motherboards that utilize a RAID controller compatible with this driver version. It enables Windows XP 64-bit to properly recognize and manage RAID arrays created on these motherboards. The driver ensures stable and reliable communication between the operating system and the RAID controller, allowing users to take full advantage of the benefits offered by their RAID configuration.
Specifically, this driver allows Windows XP 64-bit to:
- Recognize and access the RAID array as a single logical drive.
- Read and write data to the RAID array.
- Manage the RAID array, including creating, deleting, and rebuilding arrays (depending on the RAID controller’s capabilities and the management software provided).
- Optimize performance for the specific RAID level being used.
- Monitor the health of the drives within the RAID array (if the RAID controller and management software support this feature).
Features and Potential Benefits of EVGA RAID Driver 9.64
While specific features can vary depending on the underlying RAID controller, the EVGA RAID Driver 9.64 likely offers the following benefits:
- Enhanced Performance: For RAID levels like RAID 0 and RAID 5, the driver can significantly improve read and write speeds compared to using a single hard drive. This can lead to faster boot times, quicker application loading, and improved overall system responsiveness.
- Data Redundancy: For RAID levels like RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10, the driver provides data redundancy, meaning that data is protected against drive failures. If one drive fails, the data can be recovered from the remaining drives in the array, minimizing data loss.
- Reliable Operation: A stable and well-written driver ensures reliable communication between the operating system and the RAID controller, minimizing the risk of data corruption or system crashes.
- Compatibility: The EVGA RAID Driver 9.64 is specifically designed for EVGA motherboards, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance.
Important Considerations for Windows XP 64-bit Users
It is crucial to reiterate that Windows XP is an outdated operating system that is no longer supported by Microsoft. Using Windows XP on a computer connected to the internet is a significant security risk, as it is vulnerable to malware and exploits.
Therefore, installing or using the EVGA RAID Driver 9.64 on a Windows XP 64-bit system should only be done if:
- The system is isolated from the internet and other untrusted networks.
- The system is used for specific legacy applications or hardware that cannot be easily migrated to a more modern operating system.
- The user understands and accepts the security risks associated with using Windows XP.
If possible, upgrading to a more modern operating system, such as Windows 10 or Windows 11, is strongly recommended. This will provide significantly better security and compatibility with modern hardware and software.
Installing the EVGA RAID Driver 9.64
The installation process for the EVGA RAID Driver 9.64 typically involves the following steps:
- Download the Driver: Download the driver from a reliable source (see the download links below).
- Extract the Driver Files: Extract the contents of the downloaded archive (usually a ZIP file) to a folder on your hard drive.
- Install During Windows XP Setup (Recommended): The preferred method is to load the driver during the Windows XP installation process. When prompted to install drivers for storage controllers, you can provide the driver files from the extracted folder. This ensures that the RAID array is recognized from the beginning.
- Install After Windows XP Installation: If Windows XP is already installed, you can try to install the driver through the Device Manager. Locate the RAID controller (usually listed as an unknown device or a storage controller with a generic driver) and update the driver by pointing to the folder containing the extracted driver files.
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver installation.
- Reboot Your Computer: After the installation is complete, reboot your computer for the changes to take effect.
It is important to consult the documentation for your specific EVGA motherboard and RAID controller for detailed installation instructions.
Download Links for EVGA RAID Driver 9.64
Here are several download links for the EVGA RAID Driver 9.64 for Windows XP 64-bit:
Here are some alternative download sources, while we cannot guarantee their safety or integrity, they are provided as options:
- DriverGuide: (Check for compatible versions) – Search DriverGuide for "EVGA RAID Driver Windows XP 64-bit". Ensure the files are from reputable uploaders.
- Softpedia: (Check for compatible versions) – Search Softpedia for "EVGA RAID Driver Windows XP 64-bit". Ensure the file is from a reputable source and matches the version number.
- Driver Identifier: (Use with extreme caution) – Use Driver Identifier (or similar driver update tools) to scan your system and identify the appropriate driver. However, exercise extreme caution when using these tools, as they may bundle unwanted software or install incorrect drivers.
- Archive.org (Wayback Machine): Check Archive.org for older versions of the EVGA website. Sometimes driver downloads are archived there.
- EVGA Forums (Unofficial): Search the EVGA forums for users who may have uploaded the driver. Verify the uploader’s reputation before downloading.
Disclaimer: Downloading and installing drivers from unofficial sources can be risky. Always scan downloaded files with a reputable antivirus program before installing them. It’s also advisable to create a system restore point before installing any new drivers, so you can easily revert to a previous state if something goes wrong.
Conclusion
The EVGA RAID Driver 9.64 for Windows XP 64-bit is a vital component for users of EVGA motherboards who want to utilize RAID configurations under this legacy operating system. While Windows XP is no longer supported and poses security risks, this driver can enable enhanced performance, data redundancy, and reliable operation for specific legacy systems. However, users should carefully consider the security implications and take appropriate precautions before installing or using this driver on a Windows XP 64-bit system. Upgrading to a modern operating system is highly recommended whenever feasible. Remember to always download drivers from reputable sources and scan them with an antivirus program before installation.