Intel VMD and RST Storage Controller Missing Driver Windows Setup Fix
Resolve missing NVMe drives during Windows 10/11 installation on Intel 11th through 14th Gen systems caused by Intel Volume Management Device (VMD).
Internal desktop parts run on harmless 12V DC voltage and cannot shock you. Simply unplug the wall power cable first, then touch the unpainted metal case frame to ground static electricity.
Common Symptoms & Tells
- Windows Setup displays message: We could not find any drives. To get a storage driver, click Load driver
- NVMe is fully visible in motherboard but missing from Windows partition screen
- Cannot install Windows on new Intel Core laptop or desktop
Interactive Fix Checklist
0 of 4 steps completedDownload Intel RST VMD driver package
On another computer, visit laptop or motherboard manufacturer support page and download Intel Rapid Storage Technology (IRST) driver package containing VMD storage controller drivers.
Extract driver INF files to USB
Open command prompt or 7-Zip to extract the setup executable. Locate the driver folder (named f6vmdflpy-x64 or similar) containing iaStorVD.inf, iaStorVD.sys, and iaStorVD.cat files. Copy folder onto Windows USB install drive.
Load driver during Windows Setup
On the Windows Setup disk selection screen, click Load driver, click Browse, navigate to the extracted driver folder on the USB drive, and select Intel RST VMD Controller. Click Next.
Alternative: Disable Intel VMD in BIOS
If not using RAID, enter setup, locate VMD Setup Menu under Advanced or System Configuration, set Intel VMD Controller to Disabled, save changes (F10), and restart Windows Setup.
Still having trouble with your PC?
Describe what is happening to your AI Technician. We will tailor the fix to your exact hardware setup.