IBM i, formerly known as AS/400 (Application System/400), is an integrated operating system and server platform developed by IBM. It is designed to provide a robust and highly reliable environment for running business-critical applications, including enterprise resource planning (ERP), database management, and various other workloads. IBM i is known for its stability, scalability, and tight integration of hardware and software components. Here are some key features and aspects of IBM i:
- Integrated System: IBM i is a fully integrated system that combines the hardware, operating system, database, and middleware into a single cohesive platform. This tight integration simplifies system management and enhances reliability.
- Reliability and Availability: IBM i is recognized for its high availability and fault-tolerant features. It includes built-in redundancy, hardware and software monitoring, and automated recovery mechanisms to minimize downtime.
- Security: IBM i places a strong emphasis on security, with features like object-level security, role-based access control (RBAC), and encryption to protect data and resources. It is often used in industries with stringent security requirements, such as healthcare and finance.
- Database Management: IBM i includes the IBM Db2 for i database management system, which is optimized for high performance and supports SQL and NoSQL data access. It allows seamless integration of database operations with applications.
- Scalability: IBM i systems can be easily scaled to accommodate growing workloads and increased data processing requirements. This scalability is particularly useful for organizations with dynamic computing needs.
- Legacy Application Support: IBM i has strong support for legacy applications developed on the AS/400 platform, making it a preferred choice for businesses with long-established systems and software.
- Programming Languages: IBM i supports multiple programming languages, including RPG (Report Program Generator), COBOL, C, C++, Java, and PHP. This allows organizations to choose the best language for their applications.
- Web and Mobile Integration: IBM i can be integrated with web and mobile applications, enabling modernization of legacy systems and the development of new web-based interfaces.
- Batch Processing: Batch processing is a key strength of IBM i, making it suitable for applications that require large-scale data processing and reporting.
- System Management: IBM i includes tools like IBM Navigator for i, which provides a web-based interface for system management tasks, performance monitoring, and configuration.
- Backup and Recovery: The platform includes built-in backup and recovery features to protect data integrity and facilitate disaster recovery planning.
- High-Level Abstraction: IBM i abstracts many of the complexities of system management, making it easier for administrators to focus on application and business needs.
- Hardware Variants: IBM offers various hardware models and configurations to meet the performance and capacity requirements of different organizations.
IBM i is commonly used by businesses and organizations that require a reliable and stable platform for running core business applications. It is well-suited for industries such as manufacturing, distribution, finance, and healthcare, where system availability, data security, and scalability are paramount. While IBM i has a long history, it continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of modern businesses.
Key terms in plain language
Open a term for a concise explanation of language used on this page.
Disaster Recovery (DRaaS)
A plan and service for restoring applications, data, and operations after an outage or disruption. DRaaS provides recovery infrastructure through a managed cloud service.
Cloud Computing
Computing resources—such as applications, servers, storage, or databases—delivered from remote infrastructure and scaled as requirements change.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Cloud-based servers, storage, and networking that customers configure and manage without owning the underlying data-center hardware.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Software accessed as an online service instead of being installed and maintained entirely on the customer’s own computers or servers.
Identity and Access Management (IAM)
The systems and policies that determine who a user is, what resources they may access, and how that access is authenticated and reviewed.
API
An application programming interface is a defined way for software systems to exchange data or request functions from one another.