I've been searching but couldn't find any topic on this; apologies if there is and I missed it.

While investigating sound cards, the following came to my mind. It's not a new thought, but it's been a while since I've had it and never asked nor researched about it.

Most of the times, drivers are bundled with additional software (ie. Geforce Experience, ; either in disc or as download. In many cases it is just bloat that can be skipped; however I've had one or two cases where part of the software was required for proper functioning of the device, and I have a feeling sometimes it is a good thing to install some of it.
Greatest examples are drivers (again, disc or download) from Nvidia and Creative.

Which software bundled with drivers do you consider:
-a must have (hardware will work partially or not work at all without it); can't think of any example at the moment
-recommended (improves the experience); example: some fine tuning app to adjust settings that cannot otherwise be adjusted
-avoid at all costs (bloated app, redundant, etc); example: DVD player software

Ideally, please reply based on experience, including:
device model
OS
driver/software version
small description for your suggestion