D-ISM-FN-02 Replaces D-ISM-FN-01: Dell Certification Exam Update 2026
Dell Retires D-ISM-FN-01 on October 15, 2026 and Introduces the Updated D-ISM-FN-02 Exam
Dell Technologies is updating its certification program with the transition from the D-ISM-FN-01 Dell Information Storage and Management Foundations v2 Exam to the new D-ISM-FN-02 Dell Information Systems and Management Foundations Exam. The D-ISM-FN-01 exam will be officially retired on October 15, 2026, and candidates preparing for this certification path should understand the new exam structure, updated certification focus, and preparation requirements.
Unlike a traditional exam version update, the transition from D-ISM-FN-01 to D-ISM-FN-02 also introduces a change in the exam name and certification focus. The updated D-ISM-FN-02 exam expands beyond traditional storage management concepts and reflects Dell’s broader approach to modern information systems, infrastructure management, and enterprise technology environments.

Key Transition Information: D-ISM-FN-01 Retirement and D-ISM-FN-02 Replacement
The following table provides an overview of the Dell certification transition:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Retired Exam | D-ISM-FN-01 Dell Information Storage and Management Foundations v2 Exam |
| New Exam | D-ISM-FN-02 Dell Information Systems and Management Foundations Exam |
| Retirement Date | October 15, 2026 |
| Replacement Exam | D-ISM-FN-02 |
| Certification Level | Foundations |
| Main Change | Exam code update + certification name and focus update |
| Target Audience | IT professionals, infrastructure specialists, storage professionals, and candidates building foundational Dell technology knowledge |
After October 15, 2026, candidates pursuing this certification path should prepare for and take the D-ISM-FN-02 Dell Information Systems and Management Foundations Exam.
Why Is Dell Replacing D-ISM-FN-01 with D-ISM-FN-02?
The evolution from Dell Information Storage and Management Foundations to Dell Information Systems and Management Foundations reflects the changing role of enterprise infrastructure.
Modern IT environments are no longer focused only on storage devices. Organizations require professionals who understand how different infrastructure components work together, including:
● Data storage and management
● Enterprise information systems
● Infrastructure technologies
● Data availability and protection
● Modern IT operations
The D-ISM-FN-02 exam aligns Dell’s foundational certification with broader infrastructure concepts and helps candidates build a stronger understanding of today's enterprise technology landscape.
D-ISM-FN-02 vs D-ISM-FN-01: Key Differences
The biggest difference between the two exams is not only updated content but also the expanded certification scope.
| Area | D-ISM-FN-01 | D-ISM-FN-02 |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Name | Dell Information Storage and Management Foundations v2 Exam | Dell Information Systems and Management Foundations Exam |
| Exam Code | D-ISM-FN-01 | D-ISM-FN-02 |
| Certification Focus | Storage-focused foundation knowledge | Broader information systems and infrastructure foundation knowledge |
| Primary Coverage | Storage technologies, data management, and storage concepts | Information systems, infrastructure concepts, and modern Dell technology environments |
| Learning Direction | Understanding storage solutions | Understanding how enterprise information systems are designed and managed |
The updated D-ISM-FN-02 exam represents a broader foundation for candidates who want to develop skills related to Dell enterprise technologies.
What Should D-ISM-FN-01 Candidates Know About This Transition?
Candidates currently preparing for D-ISM-FN-01 should understand that the new D-ISM-FN-02 exam introduces a broader knowledge scope.
The recommended action depends on their preparation status:
| Candidate Situation | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Already passed D-ISM-FN-01 | No additional action is required |
| Currently studying D-ISM-FN-01 but not ready before retirement | Transition preparation to D-ISM-FN-02 |
| Starting preparation after October 15, 2026 | Prepare directly for D-ISM-FN-02 |
Although storage fundamentals remain valuable, candidates should use updated D-ISM-FN-02 resources to ensure preparation matches the new exam objectives.
D-ISM-FN-02 Exam Focus Areas
The D-ISM-FN-02 Dell Information Systems and Management Foundations Exam is designed to validate foundational understanding of modern Dell enterprise technology concepts.
Key study areas include:
Information Systems Fundamentals
Candidates should understand basic concepts related to enterprise information systems, infrastructure components, and how technology solutions support business operations.
Data Management and Infrastructure Concepts
Knowledge of data management principles, availability, protection, and infrastructure relationships remains important for candidates preparing for the exam.
Dell Technologies Solutions
Candidates should become familiar with Dell technology solutions and how different platforms support enterprise environments.
Modern IT Operations
The updated exam emphasizes foundational knowledge needed to understand how enterprise systems are deployed, managed, and optimized.
How to Prepare for the D-ISM-FN-02 Exam
A successful preparation strategy should focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing isolated information.
| Preparation Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Review Official Exam Objectives | Understand the skills measured by the updated D-ISM-FN-02 exam |
| Learn Core Concepts | Build knowledge of information systems, infrastructure, and data management |
| Study Dell Technologies | Understand Dell solutions and their role in enterprise environments |
| Practice Exam Questions | Identify weak areas and improve exam readiness |
| Review Real-World Scenarios | Connect concepts with practical IT environments |
Updated D-ISM-FN-02 practice questions can help candidates become familiar with exam topics, reinforce important concepts, and improve confidence before attempting the certification exam.
Frequently Asked Questions About D-ISM-FN-02 Transition
What replaces D-ISM-FN-01?
The D-ISM-FN-02 Dell Information Systems and Management Foundations Exam replaces the retired D-ISM-FN-01 Dell Information Storage and Management Foundations v2 Exam.
When will D-ISM-FN-01 retire?
The D-ISM-FN-01 exam will retire on October 15, 2026.
Is D-ISM-FN-02 just a new version of D-ISM-FN-01?
No. D-ISM-FN-02 is more than a version update. Dell has changed both the exam name and the certification focus, expanding from storage management foundations toward broader information systems and management concepts.
Should new candidates prepare for D-ISM-FN-01 or D-ISM-FN-02?
New candidates should prepare directly for D-ISM-FN-02, as D-ISM-FN-01 will no longer be available after its retirement date.
Do existing D-ISM-FN-01 study materials work for D-ISM-FN-02?
Some foundational storage concepts remain relevant, but candidates should use updated D-ISM-FN-02 preparation resources to ensure complete coverage of the latest topics.
Start Preparing for Dell D-ISM-FN-02 Today
The transition from D-ISM-FN-01 Dell Information Storage and Management Foundations v2 to D-ISM-FN-02 Dell Information Systems and Management Foundations represents Dell Technologies’ effort to modernize its foundational certification path.
With the retirement of D-ISM-FN-01 on October 15, 2026, candidates should begin preparing for D-ISM-FN-02 using updated exam objectives and current learning resources. Building a strong foundation in information systems, infrastructure concepts, and Dell technologies will help candidates successfully prepare for the new certification exam.
Updated D-ISM-FN-02 practice tests and exam preparation resources can support candidates by helping them review key concepts, evaluate their readiness, and approach the certification exam with greater confidence.
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