Windows 10 installer doesn't detect SSD on new laptop (Intel RST Driver missing ) SOLVED

IMPORTANT - READ ME -
SCENARIO:
You want to install Windows 10 on a new SSD drive OR install a fresh copy of Windows 10 on the existing SSD drive | SSD Drive Upgrade

SCOPE:
Applicable to laptops with Intell 11th generation processors running on SSD drives.
In my case, it was HP 14-DV0607 so a very recent laptop from 2020.

In my case, it was specific to M.2 NVME SSD drive though I believe the same problem will occur for other SSD drives.
ROOT CAUSE: Windows 10 installer doesn't have drivers for Intel Rapid Storage Technology.
1) You have to download drivers from the manufacturer's site
2) Extract drivers to the USB with Windows 10 installer
3) Upon loading of the installer from USB key, select Load Drivers & point to the relevant folder when you previously extracted them
4) Click NEXT & after the process is complete, you will see your drive detected by the installed with all its partitions.

REFERENCES:

Link to extensive guide from HP Support site:
https://support.hp.com/ie-en/document/c06983517
ADDED: 2022 03 31:
A few people in the comments asked about the direct link to the RST driver.
I'm adding it here, but bear in mind it's from a HP site so not sure if it will work with other laptops.
My advise is to always download the latest version of the driver from the laptop manufacturer's site

LINK TO RST Driver from HP Site (dedicated to HP Pavilion Laptop)
Intel Rapid Storage Technology Driver 18.6.1.1016 Rev.C 22.2 MB Nov 1, 2021
https://ftp.hp.com/pub/softpaq/sp135501-136000/sp135979.exe
NOTE: Don't click on the link but copy it & paste in the new web browser tab

Видео Windows 10 installer doesn't detect SSD on new laptop (Intel RST Driver missing ) SOLVED канала Maciek Jamrozy