What This Guide Covers

How to locate, download, and install Modular Disk Storage Manager (MDSM)—the management application for Dell PowerVault MD-series storage arrays—via the official Dell Support site. It explains where MDSM is distributed, compatible product lines, and step‑by‑step installation on Windows or Linux. 

Quick Fix Summary

• Get MDSM from the PowerVault MD Resource DVD (it is bundled, not a standalone download). 
• Download the ISO for your exact MD model from Dell Support, mount it, then run the MDSM installer (Windows: under WINDOWS\APP; Linux: use the provided installer).

Overview

MDSM is the graphical management utility used to configure, monitor, and maintain Dell PowerVault MD‑series arrays. Rather than a separate package, MDSM is included on the MD Resource DVD/ISO available from Dell Support for each MD product family. Users should select the Resource DVD that matches their array model to ensure version and OS compatibility.

Error Indicators

If you encounter any of the following, this guide applies:

• You cannot find a direct “MDSM installer” link on Dell Support. (MDSM is packaged within the Resource DVD.)
• Legacy or broken links referencing older driver IDs for MD3000/MD32xx resources. (Use current product pages and Resource DVD entries.)

Possible Causes

• MDSM distribution model: MDSM is delivered as part of the PowerVault MD Resource DVD, not as a standalone download.
• Model‑specific packaging: Different MD families (e.g., MD32/34/36/38 series) have distinct Resource DVDs, each containing the correct MDSM build and supporting components.
• Version/OS alignment: Newer Resource DVDs add support for updated operating systems; choosing the correct ISO ensures compatibility with your management host.

Troubleshooting Steps

1) Confirmed Fix: Download the MD Resource DVD that contains MDSM

1. Go to the Dell Support – Drivers & Downloads page.
• Example for MD32/34/36/38 series: Dell PowerVault MD32/MD34/MD36/MD38 Series Resource DVD (ISO).
2. Select your exact array model (e.g., MD3200, MD3820f) via product search if needed, then open the Resource DVD entry and download the ISO.

2) Install MDSM from the Resource DVD

Windows (Management Station):

1. Mount the downloaded ISO.
2. Navigate to the application folder (e.g., WINDOWS\APP) and launch the MDSM installer (file names vary by release).
3. Choose Management Station or Full (recommended) depending on your needs. The Full option installs MDSM, host agents, and multipath drivers.
4. Complete the wizard and reboot if prompted. 

Linux (Management Station):

1. Mount the ISO and run the console or graphical installer provided on the Resource DVD.
2. Install the Management Station or Full package as appropriate, then start MDSM.

3) Discover and Manage Your Array

1. Ensure the management station can reach the array’s default management ports (initial defaults: 192.168.129.101 / 192.168.129.102). 
2. Launch MDSM and run Automatic Discovery; alternatively, add the array manually by IP. 
3. After initial setup, reconfigure management IPs within MDSM as required for your environment.

4) If Links Seem Outdated

• Use the current product page for your MD model and navigate to Drivers & Downloads → Resource DVD. Avoid legacy driver IDs referenced in older threads.
• As a general option for consolidated media, Dell also lists historical PowerVault MD Series Storage Software ISO entries; check model/OS compatibility before use. 

Additional Notes

• The Resource DVD includes MDSM, multipath drivers, and providers; select the install profile that matches your role (host‑only vs. management station). 
• Newer Resource DVDs add support for recent OS versions (e.g., Windows Server 2016, RHEL/SLES). Always verify compatibility on the download page before installation. 
• For MD‑series deployment/management details, consult the MD3800f/MD3820f Deployment Guide section on installing PowerVault MD Storage Software. 

References

• Original Dell Community discussion: where to download MDSM (Modular Disk Storage Manager)?
• Dell Support – MD32/MD34/MD36/MD38 Series Resource DVD (ISO)
• Dell Support – PowerVault MD Series Storage Software (historical consolidated ISO)
• Dell Support – MD3800f/MD3820f Deployment Guide (Installing MD Storage Software)

Affected Systems

• Dell PowerVault MD Series arrays: MD3000/MD3000i, MD32xx (e.g., MD3200/MD3200i), MD34xx, MD36xx, MD38xx families—managed via MDSM bundled on their respective Resource DVDs. 
• Management OS: Windows Server (various versions), Red Hat Enterprise Linux, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server—supported versions depend on the specific Resource DVD release.