The Dell Midrange Storage Solutions Design 2023 (D-MSS-DS-23) exam is a critical certification for IT professionals who are involved in designing solutions around Dell Unity 5.2 and PowerStore 3.0. This certification not only tests a candidate’s proficiency in designing these solutions but also their knowledge of the key product features of both storage systems. Achieving the Proven Professional certification indicates a strong understanding of Dell Unity and PowerStore Midrange Storage Solutions, making it a highly desirable credential for those in the field.

One of the essential topics covered in the exam is Dell Midrange Storage Solutions Planning, Sizing, and Design. This topic forms 40% of the exam and is crucial for any candidate aiming to excel. Let’s delve deeper into what this entails.

Dell Midrange Storage Solutions Planning, Sizing, and Design (40%)

This section focuses on the critical phases of a Midrange solution sales engagement: planning, sizing, and design. Each phase requires a thorough understanding of various factors to ensure the successful deployment of Dell Midrange storage solutions.

1. Planning Phase

The planning phase involves several key activities that set the stage for a successful storage solution deployment.

• Site Evaluation and Remediation: This involves assessing the current state of the site where the storage solution will be deployed. It includes checking the physical environment, network infrastructure, and existing storage systems. Identifying and addressing any issues early on is crucial to avoid potential problems during implementation.
• Requirement Gathering: Understanding the customer’s business needs and technical requirements is vital. This includes the type of applications that will be supported, data growth projections, and any specific performance or compliance requirements.

2. Sizing Phase

Sizing is about determining the appropriate resources required to meet the identified needs. This includes:

• Performance Parameters: Understanding the performance requirements, such as IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second), throughput, and latency, is crucial. This helps in selecting the right storage system and configuration to meet these demands.
• Environmental Limits: Considerations such as power, cooling, and physical space must be taken into account. Ensuring that the chosen solution fits within these limits is essential for a smooth operation.
• Workload Characterization: Analyzing the workloads that the storage solution will support helps in determining the optimal configuration. This includes understanding the read/write ratios, sequential versus random access patterns, and any other specific workload characteristics.

3. Design Phase

The design phase translates the planning and sizing insights into a concrete solution design.

• System Configuration: This involves selecting the appropriate hardware and software components, such as the type and number of drives, RAID configuration, and any additional features like data reduction or replication.
• Migration and Data Protection Planning: Planning for data migration from existing systems to the new solution is critical. This includes minimizing downtime and ensuring data integrity. Additionally, designing a robust data protection strategy, including backups and disaster recovery plans, is essential for safeguarding the customer’s data.

Here are some D-MSS-DS-23 practice questions with detailed explanations

1. What tools can be used to migrate block data from a legacy VNX array to a new Dell Unity XT array?
A. SANCopy and PowerPath Migration Enabler
B. EMCopy and SANCopy
C. PowerPath Migration Enabler and Rsync
D. Rsync and EMCopy
Answer: A

Explanation:

• SANCopy is a data migration solution that can move data between different storage arrays. It supports the migration of block data from legacy VNX arrays to new Unity XT arrays.
• PowerPath Migration Enabler (PPME) is another tool designed for data migration, providing automated and non-disruptive migrations. It helps manage and optimize path management and supports data migration between VNX and Unity XT arrays.

2. What is the maximum capacity of a file system on a Dell Unity XT 380?
A. 32 TB
B. 64 TB
C. 256 TB
D. 128 TB
Answer: B

Explanation:

• The Dell Unity XT 380, part of the Unity XT family, has a maximum file system capacity of 64 TB. This capacity supports various file-based storage needs, ensuring adequate storage space for different applications and workloads.

3. A solution architect is working on a Dell Unity XT sizing and wants to share it with colleagues to review.
What is the fastest way to do that?
A. Export project and email it to them.
B. Create print screen of the configuration and share it.
C. Share the project within Midrange Sizer tool.
Answer: C

Explanation:

• The Midrange Sizer tool is designed to facilitate the configuration and sizing of Dell Unity XT storage solutions. Sharing a project within this tool allows colleagues to access and review the configuration directly, providing a streamlined and efficient method for collaboration.

4. Which path of the sizer tool for Dell Unity XT enables the use of workload parameters such as target IOPS, I/O size, and number of users?
A. Application Oriented
B. Simple Performance
C. Quick Configuration
D. System Designer
Answer: A

Explanation:

• The Application Oriented path in the sizer tool allows users to input specific workload parameters such as target IOPS, I/O size, and the number of users. This approach is tailored to optimize storage solutions based on the unique demands of different applications, ensuring performance and capacity are aligned with the workload requirements.

5. Which low-latency workload type is a best practice for an all-SCM Dell PowerStore array?
A. Backup workloads
B. Media streaming workloads
C. Small block workloads
D. Large block workloads
Answer: C

Explanation:

• All-SCM (Storage Class Memory) arrays in Dell PowerStore are optimized for low-latency operations. Small block workloads are ideal for this type of storage because they benefit the most from the low latency and high IOPS capabilities of SCM, making them the best practice for ensuring optimal performance.

6. Which parameters can be selected when sizing a Dell Unity XT 480F using the System Design method?
A. Drive count and RAID level Percentage of random writes and reads
B. Data reduction ratio Percentage of sequential writes and reads
C. One of four workload types Drive count and RAID level
D. One of two block sizes Application type
Answer: C

Explanation:

• When using the System Design method for sizing a Dell Unity XT 480F, users can select from one of four predefined workload types, which helps in tailoring the storage configuration to specific needs. Additionally, they can specify the drive count and RAID level, providing flexibility in optimizing the storage array for performance and capacity.

7. Cloud IQ Proactive Health Score is based on what 5 categories?
A. Network, Servers, Capacity, Performance, and Data Protection
B. Fault Events, Changed Configurations, Capacity, Performance, and Data Protection
C. Storage, Servers, Capacity, Performance, and Data Protection
D. Components, Configuration, Capacity, Performance, and Data Protection
Answer: D

Explanation:

• Cloud IQ is a monitoring and analytics platform that provides a Proactive Health Score for storage arrays. The score is based on five key categories:
  • Components: Evaluates the health of hardware components.
  • Configuration: Assesses whether the system configuration follows best practices.
  • Capacity: Monitors storage capacity usage and trends.
  • Performance: Analyzes performance metrics to ensure optimal operation.
  • Data Protection: Ensures that data protection mechanisms are in place and functioning correctly.

In conclusion, mastering the planning, sizing, and design aspects of Dell Midrange Storage Solutions is essential for passing the D-MSS-DS-23 exam and excelling in your role as a storage solutions designer. This knowledge ensures that you can effectively evaluate customer needs, design optimal solutions, and implement them successfully, ultimately contributing to your success and the satisfaction of your customers.

Stay tuned for more insights and tips on how to prepare for the Dell Midrange Storage Solutions Design 2023 exam. Good luck on your certification journey!