A method for execution by one or more processing modules of one or more computing devices of a dispersed storage network (DSN), the method begins by determining a DSN node configuration automatically during deployment. The method continues by modifying the DSN node configuration to enable/disable specific hardware features. The method continues by modifying the DSN node configuration to test hardware failure scenarios. The method continues by modifying the DSN node configuration for component replacement procedures. The method continues by reporting the modified DSN node configuration to a DSN management unit and providing a status on component and health of the DSN node to an operator of the DSN.