The software Ghost option is just that an option as the mouse worked in my games without installing it, so therefore I feel an optional software upgrade, the only thing not functioning without the software is the scroll buttons left/right click feature. I installed it anyways and it does offer some advanced mouse settings and how the mouse’s sensitivity is set, as well as the center wheels left/right click. I messed around with the Ghost software, but I did not really find it necessary to my needs. Some people may find this to be an excellent addition to the mouse’s overall appeal and actually use the advanced settings, and for them it will be beneficial. I just plugged it into my USB port and it was automatically detected by Windows Vista. The Ghost software comes on an included CD in the retail boxed product.

That said I basically just started playing various games to see how well the mouse felt in various gaming environments and all the mouse buttons could all be configured within the game GUI. I had no problems setting any of the buttons to what I wanted them to be used for without the software other than the mouse scrolls left/right click option. This is how I feel it should be in any case, and really do not think software should even have to be used in order for any mouse buttons to function within the game, but alas if you want all seven buttons to function, you will have to install the software. No big deal anyways as it takes literally seconds to install, but it does require a restart of the system to be fully functioning. My main thing about a mouse is how well it feels under my hand and how well I can access the buttons without being uncomfortable, then comes how accurate it is and how functional is it. I found the Gigabyte GM-M8000 Laser Gaming Mouse to be an exceptional product, it was very easy to install, basically plug and play, and then install the software. It has a very good feel to it and does not wear your hand out, even after hours of game play, so I am totally satisfied.