Warning: If you plan on re-enabling VMD configuration later for optimization or RAID arrays, Windows will throw an "INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE" Blue Screen error unless the IRST driver is fully installed inside Windows first. Maintaining Storage Performance Post-Installation
With your updated bootable USB drive ready, you can now proceed to install Windows on your ASUS X515EA. Plug the USB drive into your ASUS X515EA laptop.
I can provide specific instructions to help you get your laptop up and running. Share public link
Locate and switch its value to Disabled . asus x515ea irst driver top
If you do not have a secondary computer or a USB to extract the drivers, you can disable the VMD controller entirely to make your drive visible without any external driver files:
Click the button located at the bottom-left corner of the window. Step 3: Browse to the Files Click Browse in the popup box.
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. Warning: If you plan on re-enabling VMD configuration
Search for Intel Rapid Storage Technology (IRST) Driver (e.g., Version V18.6.1.1016 or V19.x). 🛠️ Step 2: Prepare the USB Drive
To help find the exact file versions or troubleshoot further, tell me:
Newer BIOS updates for the X515EA enable Intel VMD by default. VMD requires an IRST driver version 18.0+ to function correctly. Without it, your SSD may vanish from the system entirely. I can provide specific instructions to help you
Locate the category and find the Intel Rapid Storage Technology (IRST) Driver .
If you cannot get the driver to work, you can temporarily disable the VMD controller in the BIOS to install Windows, although for better performance. Enter BIOS by pressing F2 during boot. Press F7 to enter Advanced Mode . Go to the Advanced tab. Locate VMD Setup Menu or Intel VMD Technology . Set VMD to Disabled . Save changes and exit (F10). Proceed with Windows installation.