The D-ISM-FN-23 exam is the current certification for professionals looking to validate their knowledge of storage-related technologies in modern data center environments. This D-ISM-FN-23 exam will be retired on March 6, 2025, and a new version, the D-ISM-FN-00, will become available on March 7, 2025. While the D-ISM-FN-23 exam covers core topics such as data center technologies, intelligent storage systems, storage networking, backup and replication methods, and storage infrastructure security, the D-ISM-FN-00 exam is designed as an upgrade to D-ISM-FN-23, with some refinements and enhancements to align with the latest trends in the storage industry.
D-ISM-FN-23 vs D-ISM-FN-00 Exam Topics
| D-ISM-FN-23 |
D-ISM-FN-00 |
Modern Data Center Infrastructure (18%)
Storage Systems (23%)
Storage Networking Technologies (19%)
Backup, Archive, and Replication (24%)
Security and Management (16%)
|
Modern Data Center Infrastructure (18%)
Storage Systems (23%)
Storage Networking Technologies (19%)
Backup, Archive, and Replication (24%)
Security and Management (16%)
|
The structure of the D-ISM-FN-00 exam is essentially the same as the D-ISM-FN-23 exam, with the same five core sections covering the same topics. However, the D-ISM-FN-00 exam introduces refinements in question design, aligning with updated storage technologies and practices.
Focus on Emerging Technologies
D-ISM-FN-23: The D-ISM-FN-23 exam covers essential topics such as cloud service models, edge computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), but it doesn’t focus as heavily on some of the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of data centers, such as AI/ML and 5G.
D-ISM-FN-00: The D-ISM-FN-00 exam introduces a more forward-looking perspective, with a sharper focus on emerging technologies. Specifically, it provides deeper insight into the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), 5G, and Edge Computing within storage management and data center infrastructure. These technologies are increasingly driving the digital transformation of organizations and are now part of the D-ISM-FN-00 exam content.
Updated Terminology and Frameworks
D-ISM-FN-23: The D-ISM-FN-23 exam includes classic data center concepts such as traditional SAN, iSCSI, and RAID configurations, but it does not cover newer frameworks like Software-Defined Storage (SDS) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) as comprehensively as the D-ISM-FN-00 exam.
D-ISM-FN-00: D-ISM-FN-00 places a stronger emphasis on Software-Defined Storage (SDS) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) technologies, which are now integral to modern data centers. This exam version focuses on how these technologies work together to enable more efficient, flexible, and cost-effective storage management solutions.
Integration with Digital Transformation Concepts
D-ISM-FN-23: While D-ISM-FN-23 does address technologies driving digital transformation, the exam content may feel slightly more rooted in traditional data center infrastructure.
D-ISM-FN-00: The D-ISM-FN-00 exam integrates these concepts more deeply, specifically in the areas of AI/ML, IoT, and 5G. These technologies are reshaping the storage and management of data in real-time, and the exam aligns with the growing trend of digital transformation across industries.
Retirement and Availability of the Exam Versions
D-ISM-FN-23: will be retired on March 6, 2025, marking the end of its availability. Those who are planning to take this exam should do so before this date to earn the certification.
D-ISM-FN-00: will be released on March 7, 2025, and will take over from the D-ISM-FN-23 version. This updated exam will build on the foundation set by D-ISM-FN-23, offering more relevant and contemporary insights into data storage management.
Language Availability
D-ISM-FN-23: English.
D-ISM-FN-00: English and French.
Which Exam Should You Choose?
If you are planning to take the exam before March 6, 2025, D-ISM-FN-23 is your option. However, if you are looking to stay ahead of emerging storage technologies and want to align with the latest developments in the field, it might be worth considering the D-ISM-FN-00 exam after its release on March 7, 2025. The D-ISM-FN-00 exam will give you a more future-proof certification with a sharper focus on digital transformation, AI/ML, 5G, and software-defined infrastructure. Both exams provide a solid foundation in modern data storage and management principles, but the D-ISM-FN-00 exam will prepare you for the future, equipping you with the skills needed to manage increasingly complex and dynamic data center environments.
