Dell D-PST-DY-23 Exam Dumps & Practice Test Questions

Question 1:

What is the maximum number of volumes that can be created at the same time using Dell EMC’s PowerStore Manager interface?

A. 64
B. 100
C. 128
D. 200

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Dell EMC PowerStore is a modern data-centric storage platform designed to meet the requirements of today’s dynamic and data-intensive IT environments. One of the key components for interacting with PowerStore is the PowerStore Manager, a user-friendly graphical interface that enables storage administrators to handle configuration, provisioning, and performance monitoring tasks efficiently.

A common requirement in enterprise-level storage operations is the ability to provision multiple volumes quickly. Volumes act as logical storage containers that host data for applications, virtual machines, and databases. When setting up new services or expanding existing infrastructure, administrators often need to create many volumes in bulk.

PowerStore Manager simplifies this process by offering bulk volume creation, allowing users to create several volumes in a single operation. This is extremely helpful in large environments where manually creating each volume would be time-consuming and error-prone. For example, a virtual infrastructure may require dozens or even hundreds of volumes to support virtual machines (VMs), databases, or containers.

The maximum number of volumes that can be created simultaneously using PowerStore Manager is 128. This limit is intentionally set to balance performance, scalability, and management overhead. Creating 128 volumes in a single operation ensures rapid deployment without overwhelming the system or compromising stability.

Why not more than 128? The system’s internal design and operational safeguards are optimized to handle a high number of volume creation requests without affecting performance. While smaller environments might only need 64 or 100 volumes, enterprise customers benefit from the ability to provision up to 128 at once, reducing administrative overhead and setup time.

Now, let’s assess the incorrect options:

• Option A (64) and Option B (100) represent lower limits that may apply to other systems or older workflows but are not the cap in PowerStore Manager.

• Option D (200) exceeds the documented limit and might cause confusion regarding batch limits and system performance tuning.

In conclusion, PowerStore Manager’s capacity to create up to 128 volumes simultaneously empowers IT teams with the speed and scalability needed for rapid infrastructure deployment and efficient resource allocation, particularly in cloud, virtualization, and high-volume data environments.

Question 2:

Which two VMware file system-related capabilities are directly supported by Dell EMC PowerStore? (Choose two.)

A. Integration with VAAI primitives
B. Compatibility with NFS-based datastores
C. Built-in support for storage quotas
D. Direct availability for VMFS datastores

Correct Answers: A and B

Explanation:

PowerStore from Dell EMC is a cutting-edge storage platform optimized for virtualized and cloud-ready environments. It is particularly well-integrated with VMware, the industry-leading virtualization platform, and provides several advanced features that enhance performance, reduce resource consumption, and streamline storage operations in VMware environments.

One of the major benefits PowerStore offers is its support for VAAI (vStorage APIs for Array Integration). VAAI is a VMware-developed set of APIs that allow storage-related tasks to be offloaded from the ESXi host to the storage array. This means that operations such as cloning virtual machines, performing Storage vMotion, or zeroing out disk space can be executed directly on the storage array itself. This offloading reduces the load on the hypervisor, speeds up storage operations, and improves overall performance. PowerStore’s support for VAAI ensures seamless integration and accelerated tasks in VMware environments, which is why Option A is correct.

In addition to that, PowerStore supports NFS (Network File System) datastores, which are commonly used in VMware setups. NFS allows a storage device to be accessed over the network as a shared file system. VMware uses this approach to store virtual machine files (VMDKs), enabling multiple hosts to access the same storage pool. PowerStore's native support for NFS-based datastores makes it highly versatile for managing shared storage in virtual environments. This is especially valuable in clustered setups or when virtual machines need to be quickly migrated across hosts. Hence, Option B is also correct.

Now, let’s evaluate the incorrect options:

• Option C (Supports quotas) refers to the ability to set limitations on storage usage per user or directory. While quotas can be useful in certain scenarios, PowerStore does not specifically advertise or highlight this capability as part of its VMware integration, making it an incorrect choice in this context.

• Option D (VMFS datastores) involves the use of block-based storage rather than file-based storage like NFS. While VMware supports VMFS, PowerStore’s enhanced integration focuses on NFS, especially with features like snapshots, automation, and file-level access.

To summarize, PowerStore's strong support for VAAI primitives and NFS datastores makes it a high-performing and efficient solution for VMware environments, enabling faster provisioning, improved VM operations, and simplified shared storage management.

Question 3:

If the latency between the primary (production) site and the disaster recovery (DR) site is under 5 milliseconds, which specific TCP port must be open on the firewall to allow PowerStore to successfully handle inter-site communication for replication?

A. 13333
B. 13335
C. 13334
D. 13336

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

In disaster recovery (DR) architectures, particularly those involving Dell PowerStore appliances, seamless data replication between the production and DR sites is essential. The purpose of replication is to ensure that data changes made at the primary site are mirrored at the DR site in near real-time or as configured, depending on business continuity and recovery point objectives (RPO).

Replication over a Wide Area Network (WAN) requires a stable and secure communication channel. In environments where the WAN link exhibits low latency—specifically under 5 milliseconds—data can be transmitted efficiently with minimal delay. However, low latency alone isn’t sufficient for proper replication. The network infrastructure, including firewalls, must be configured to allow specific traffic.

In PowerStore systems, TCP port 13334 is dedicated exclusively to replication communication between appliances across different sites. This port enables the PowerStore systems to establish and maintain the connection needed to synchronize data between the source and target arrays.

Failing to allow traffic on this port—such as by leaving it blocked in a firewall—would cause the replication service to malfunction. Even though both sites may be technically operational and reachable over the WAN, the replication link will fail if this specific port is unavailable. This could result in data loss in the event of a disaster or failover event since the DR site would not have the latest synchronized data from production.

Let's evaluate the other options:

• Port 13333 and 13335 may be used by PowerStore for other internal services but are not used for replication.

• Port 13336, likewise, does not serve replication traffic.

• Only port 13334 is designated for PowerStore inter-cluster replication.

Network administrators and storage engineers should always reference Dell EMC's PowerStore documentation or support matrix to confirm port requirements. Additionally, they should ensure bi-directional traffic is allowed on port 13334 between the sites, particularly if synchronous replication is configured (which benefits most from sub-5ms latency environments).

In summary, for PowerStore systems configured for replication between a production and disaster recovery site, port 13334 must be opened on the firewall to allow replication services to function correctly. Thus, the correct choice is C.

Question 4:

What is the highest number of snapshot rules and replication rules that can be configured within a single PowerStore protection policy?

A. One snapshot rule and four replication rules
B. One snapshot rule and one replication rule
C. Four snapshot rules and one replication rule
D. Four snapshot rules and four replication rules

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

In PowerStore’s data protection strategy, protection policies play a central role in ensuring business resilience. These policies govern two key data safeguarding techniques: snapshots and replication. Each protection policy can include a combination of both types of rules, offering flexibility and coverage to meet various recovery and retention requirements.

Snapshot rules define how and when point-in-time images of volumes or volumes groups are captured. Snapshots are used for local backup, short-term recovery, or operational testing scenarios. For example, a business might create daily, weekly, and monthly snapshots for different operational needs.

Replication rules, on the other hand, configure how data is duplicated to remote PowerStore appliances for disaster recovery. Replication supports scenarios where mission-critical data must be preserved offsite, reducing the risk associated with physical or logical failures at the primary site.

PowerStore allows for the configuration of up to four snapshot rules and up to four replication rules within a single protection policy. This capability is crucial for organizations with complex data protection needs. For example, a business could simultaneously:

• Schedule snapshots at multiple intervals (e.g., hourly and daily),

• Replicate the same data to different geographical DR sites for redundancy,

• Combine local and remote protection strategies seamlessly.

Let’s review the choices:

• Option A (1 snapshot, 4 replications): Undervalues snapshot capability.

• Option B (1 snapshot, 1 replication): Too limited and not reflective of PowerStore's full capabilities.

• Option C (4 snapshots, 1 replication): Closer to reality but does not leverage full replication flexibility.

• Option D (4 snapshots, 4 replications): This is the correct and complete configuration limit for a single policy.

By supporting multiple snapshot and replication rules within the same policy, PowerStore enables fine-tuned protection plans for different applications and service levels. For example, transactional databases may require frequent snapshots and replication to a nearby site, whereas archived data may need weekly snapshots and replication to a cost-effective remote site.

In conclusion, PowerStore protection policies allow up to four snapshot rules and four replication rules per policy, giving administrators the ability to define robust, granular data protection plans. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

Question 5:

When importing external storage into a PowerStore system, at which point does the host-to-storage data path become the active I/O route?

A. As soon as the import session starts
B. When MPIO on the host restarts
C. Before launching the Import Storage wizard
D. During the installation of the ImportKit

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

During the process of importing external storage into a PowerStore system, one of the most important aspects is determining when the data path from the host to PowerStore becomes active. The correct point at which the I/O path becomes active is when the host’s Multipath I/O (MPIO) service is restarted.

MPIO is a critical feature that allows multiple physical paths between the host and storage system, providing redundancy and load balancing. In the context of PowerStore's External Storage Import feature, MPIO plays a key role in activating communication channels between the host and the new storage array.

While the import session may be initiated (Option A), that does not automatically trigger the use of the new storage for I/O. The session mainly prepares the environment, including configuring logical components and initializing data movement. However, until MPIO is restarted on the host, the data path is not actively recognized or used.

Option C, referencing actions before launching the Import Storage wizard, is misleading. At that point, network and system preparation may be ongoing, but data path activation is still not achieved.

Option D involves the ImportKit, which is used to assist in establishing connectivity and preparing the environment. But again, it does not itself activate the I/O path. That role is specifically dependent on MPIO restarting.

Only when MPIO restarts does the host rescan and establish the new connections through the multipath framework, allowing for data traffic to be routed through the PowerStore system. This is essential for ensuring that the storage import session transitions from a planning/setup phase to an operational one, where real-time I/O can occur securely and efficiently.

In short, MPIO restart is the definitive event that triggers path activation, and knowing this is crucial for real-world implementations and for success on the PowerStore-focused certification exams.

Question 6:

Which of the following best describes the correct setup for configuring the File Mobility Network in PowerStore?

A. It shares the same VLAN and subnet as the management network
B. It uses an optional Cluster IP for mobility operations
C. It resides on the same subnet and VLAN as the storage network
D. It is configured under the Management tab in PowerStore Manager

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

In PowerStore, file mobility enables administrators to move data seamlessly across different storage resources, typically between block and file environments or across appliances. To support such operations efficiently, a specialized File Mobility Network must be configured properly.

The correct setup requires placing the file mobility network on the same subnet and VLAN as the storage network. This design ensures that the heavy data transfers associated with mobility are routed through a network optimized for performance and reliability, not shared with management or administrative traffic.

Let’s examine why Option C is the right answer:

The storage network is engineered to handle high-throughput data operations. By co-locating the file mobility traffic on this network (same VLAN and subnet), administrators ensure minimal latency, greater reliability, and optimal bandwidth usage during file transfer activities. This configuration supports faster migrations and fewer network bottlenecks.

Now, breaking down the incorrect options:

• Option A: Suggests using the management network. This is a common misstep. The management network is designated for administrative operations like configuration and monitoring. Using it for data migration could impair performance and compromise data transfer integrity.

• Option B: Refers to a Cluster IP, which is associated with cluster management and internal node communication—not specifically with file mobility operations. The file mobility process doesn't rely on a Cluster IP for its data routing.

• Option D: Implies configuration via the Management tab in PowerStore Manager. However, file mobility settings are part of the storage network configuration, not general management settings. The configuration is typically done through networking tabs tied to performance-critical pathways.

Ultimately, to fully enable and optimize file mobility, the network must mirror the same performance and design attributes as the underlying storage fabric. Therefore, Option C correctly reflects the practical and architectural requirement for PowerStore deployments involving file migration or mobility features.

Question 7:

What are the minimum supported versions required to integrate VMware Site Recovery Manager (SRM) with Dell PowerStore? (Choose two.)

A. VMware SRM version 8.3 or higher
B. VMware SRM version 8.0 or higher
C. VMware vCenter Server and ESXi version 6.5 or newer
D. VMware vCenter Server and ESXi version 6.7 or newer

Correct Answers: B and C

Explanation:

For organizations planning to use VMware Site Recovery Manager (SRM) with Dell PowerStore, it's essential to meet certain minimum software requirements to ensure compatibility and seamless disaster recovery operations. SRM, as VMware’s orchestration solution for disaster recovery, enables the automation of failover and failback processes between sites. When integrating SRM with PowerStore, specific versions of both SRM and VMware infrastructure components (vCenter and ESXi) must be in place.

The correct minimum SRM version supported with PowerStore is version 8.0. While newer versions like 8.3 introduce additional features and enhancements, they are not required to meet the base integration threshold. SRM 8.0 provides full support for key functionalities such as vSphere Replication, which PowerStore relies on to replicate virtual machines between primary and secondary sites for disaster recovery readiness.

In addition to SRM, the minimum VMware infrastructure requirement includes vCenter Server and ESXi version 6.5 or higher. This version introduced important updates like enhanced vSphere Replication support and improvements in vCenter APIs—both of which are critical to ensuring smooth integration with PowerStore's replication engine. Running ESXi and vCenter on version 6.5 or above allows SRM to successfully orchestrate failover operations for VMs stored on PowerStore appliances.

Now, let’s look at why the other options are incorrect:

• Option A (SRM 8.3 or higher) implies a more recent version than required. While valid and supported, it is not the minimum requirement.

• Option D (vCenter and ESXi 6.7 or newer) similarly lists a newer version that exceeds the minimum baseline.

In summary, the integration between SRM and PowerStore demands that the VMware SRM version is 8.0 or newer, and that vCenter Server and ESXi are running version 6.5 or later. Meeting these requirements enables full support for replication, orchestration, and automated recovery of VMs across datacenters using PowerStore's backend storage and VMware's virtualization stack.

Question 8:

Which type of drive is compatible with the Dell PowerStore ENS24 Expansion Enclosure?

A. NVMe NVRAM
B. NVMe SSD
C. SAS SSD
D. NVMe SCM

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The Dell PowerStore ENS24 Expansion Enclosure is engineered to extend the storage capacity of existing PowerStore appliances. Its architecture is purpose-built to maximize performance, efficiency, and scalability by supporting NVMe SSD drives exclusively. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a high-speed storage protocol designed to operate across PCIe interfaces, offering significantly improved data throughput and lower latency compared to legacy interfaces like SATA or SAS.

Option B, NVMe SSD, is the correct choice because the ENS24 enclosure is tailored for these drives. NVMe SSDs enable PowerStore to maintain high-performance benchmarks even as storage is expanded. This makes them ideal for use cases involving high IOPS workloads, such as databases, virtualization, analytics, and cloud-native apps. Their performance advantages come from eliminating the bottlenecks commonly seen in older storage protocols.

Now, examining the incorrect options:

• A (NVMe NVRAM): While NVMe NVRAM is indeed fast and useful for caching or journaling operations, it is not supported as a primary drive type in the ENS24. These modules are typically reserved for system-level operations like write caching inside the base appliance, not expansion shelves.

• C (SAS SSD): SAS drives, though reliable and still in use in many enterprise setups, are not compatible with the ENS24 enclosure. Dell PowerStore’s scale-out and high-performance design intentionally omits support for SAS in the ENS24 to avoid compromising performance consistency.

• D (NVMe SCM): NVMe SCM (Storage Class Memory) offers even faster access times and durability than NVMe SSDs. However, it is primarily used in next-gen applications that demand ultra-low latency, such as real-time analytics and in-memory databases. SCM is not a supported drive type in the ENS24 expansion shelf.

Ultimately, for expanding your PowerStore environment with the ENS24 enclosure, NVMe SSDs are the only supported and validated drive type. This ensures consistent performance, low-latency access, and optimal integration with the PowerStore system’s data services.

Question 9:

During a PowerStore T model initial setup, which networking configuration step must be completed to ensure successful communication with the system?

A. Configure static routes on each NVMe interface
B. Assign management IPs to each appliance node
C. Enable LACP for every iSCSI port
D. Set up VLAN tagging on the SAS expansion ports

Answer: B

Explanation:

When deploying a Dell PowerStore T model, one of the critical first steps is configuring the management network, which enables access to the system through the PowerStore Manager interface. This process includes assigning IP addresses to each appliance node, ensuring that each node in the cluster can communicate and be managed through the management network.

The management network serves as the foundation for interacting with the PowerStore system. Without properly assigning management IPs, the appliance cannot be configured further or integrated into an existing environment. Each node (also referred to as an appliance node) in the cluster requires a unique IP address within the same subnet, and these are typically configured using the PowerStore Initial Configuration Wizard (ICW) through a direct laptop connection or via the management port.

Option A is incorrect because NVMe interfaces don’t use IP routes for initial setup—they are used later for storage protocols in NVMe over Fabrics configurations. Option C, enabling LACP, might be relevant for performance tuning or link aggregation, but it is not mandatory during the initial configuration. Option D, VLAN tagging on SAS ports, is incorrect because SAS ports are used for backend expansion, not for Ethernet or VLANs.

Correctly setting up management IPs is crucial not just for deployment but also for ongoing management, monitoring, firmware upgrades, and support diagnostics. This configuration forms the basis of connectivity with PowerStore Manager, CLI, REST APIs, and integration tools like Dell CloudIQ.

In summary, assigning management IPs to each appliance node is an essential prerequisite for any PowerStore deployment, making it a foundational topic for the D-PST-DY-23 exam.

Question 10:

In PowerStore X model deployments, what is the role of the embedded ESXi hypervisor on the appliance nodes?

A. It acts only as a pass-through layer for storage resources
B. It provides a compute layer for running user VMs directly on the appliance
C. It mirrors data between appliances for redundancy
D. It is used exclusively for internal service VMs and has no user-accessible functions

Answer: B

Explanation:

Dell PowerStore X models represent a key innovation in the storage industry: they run embedded VMware ESXi hypervisors directly on the appliance nodes. This architecture enables PowerStore X to operate in what Dell refers to as “AppsON” mode, allowing users to run virtual machines (VMs) directly on the storage appliance, eliminating the need for separate physical compute infrastructure.

The embedded ESXi environment is fully integrated, and PowerStore Manager provides visibility into the virtual environment. This integration allows administrators to deploy, manage, and monitor both storage resources and VMs from a unified interface. It's particularly valuable for edge deployments or environments where space and resources are constrained, as it consolidates storage and compute functions into a single footprint.

Option A is incorrect because the hypervisor does not serve merely as a pass-through; it actively hosts VMs. Option C is misleading—the system does have high availability and redundancy features, but mirroring between appliances is not the hypervisor’s responsibility. Option D is partially true in that internal service VMs do exist, but PowerStore X also supports user VMs, which is the differentiating feature from PowerStore T models.

This hybrid approach brings the benefits of virtualization—agility, efficiency, and scalability—to the storage layer. The user can deploy VM workloads, management VMs, and even third-party applications directly on PowerStore X appliances. It’s important to note, however, that vCenter integration and standard VMware licensing are still required for full functionality.

For the D-PST-DY-23 exam, understanding the difference between PowerStore T (standard storage appliance) and X (hypervisor-enabled) is critical, as well as the use cases, limitations, and configuration methods for each.

In conclusion, the embedded ESXi hypervisor on PowerStore X provides a compute layer for running user VMs directly on the storage appliance, enabling an efficient and consolidated IT infrastructure solution.