Understanding Intel RST VMD Controller: A Comprehensive Guide

The Intel Rapid Storage Technology (Intel RST) Driver 18.3 is a powerful tool that enables users to configure and manage various storage features, including RAID 0/1/5/10, system acceleration with Intel Optane memory, and support for Microsoft Windows 11* operating systems. One of the key features of the Intel RST driver is its integration with the VMD (Virtual Machine Driver) controller, which allows users to manage virtual machines and storage devices more efficiently.

Installing the Intel RST Driver

To install the Intel RST driver, users can follow these steps:

1. Refer to section 6.3 of the Readme file for instructions on pre-installing the Intel RST driver using the 'Load Driver' method.

2. Download the Intel Optane Memory and Storage Management application from the Microsoft Store.

Configuring RAID

The Intel RST driver supports configuration and enabling of multiple features, including RAID 0/1/5/10. To configure RAID, users can follow these steps:

1. Locate the VMD Setup Menu for their platform.

2. Enable the available storage ports that contain the devices to be managed by the Intel RST driver.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If users encounter issues with the Intel RST driver or VMD controller, there are two possible solutions:

1. Reset the Startup Intel RST Service.

2. Use the Intel generic driver update (although this is not recommended).

Customization and Support

It's important to note that system manufacturers regularly customize Intel generic drivers to meet the needs of their specific system design. As such, end users should utilize driver updates provided by their system manufacturer or via Windows Update to eliminate the potential impact caused by loading non-customized drivers.

In conclusion, the Intel RST VMD controller is a powerful tool that enables users to manage and configure various storage features, including RAID 0/1/5/10 and system acceleration with Intel Optane memory. By understanding how to install, configure, and troubleshoot common issues with the Intel RST driver and VMD controller, users can get the most out of their storage devices and improve overall system performance.

Intel rst vmd controller