iSeries IBM

The technology field is replete with impressive utilities and devices — one of which is iSeries IBM. This remarkable piece of equipment was first launched in 2000 and has since maintained its positioning as a critical driver of powerful business solutions. The iSeries IBM, also now interchangeably known as IBM i or the IBM System i, features many functionalities designed to accommodate any system needs. As a forerunner in the domain of servers, its reputation precedes it, and for practicable reasons. 

One of the critical components of the iSeries IBM server is its operating system — the IBM i operating system. The operating system is designed for IBM Power Systems and is touted for its robustness and efficiency in handling a multitude of tasks. With this system, users can run AIX, IBM i, and Linux operating systems and are also primed to run IBM’s eServer product line. Interdependence between the operating system and the server results in an architecture optimized for business and offers integrated relational database management, security, and web services. 

Undoubtedly, the IBM iSeries server is a force to be reckoned with. This server is built to facilitate operations in commercial environments, factoring in compatibility, scalability, and reliability, which are crucial to maximizing operational productivity. With this server, organizations can operate on a single, simple, and secure platform that works to improve data processing performance and interactivity with web services and reduces overhead and administration. 

The iSeries IBM server is powered by IBM Power Systems. This server family is highly regarded for their impressive performance support, from high-performance computing and analytics to cloud and AI workloads. These servers are built on the robust IBM Power architecture, forming a critical cornerstone of hybrid cloud environments. The combination of state-of-the-art technology and innovative designs makes these servers suitable for organizations looking to modernize their infrastructure and accelerate digital transformation. 

Understanding ‘what is IBM iSeries used for’ helps streamline complex working environments by offering an interface that optimizes operational efficiency and enhances productivity. 

• It allows for consolidating different workloads into a single system, promoting cost efficiency and waste reduction.
• Additionally, it offers integrated security and automatic backup and recovery, enabling businesses to protect critical data and ensure business continuity. 

However, the specifications or “iSeries IBM specs” do vary according to the particular generation of the server. A typical iSeries machine would include features such as the POWER8 or POWER9 processors, a considerable amount of internal storage, and multiple memory capacities, amongst many other features. 

In the same vein, IBM i, as mentioned earlier in the IBM i Operating System, runs applications and databases efficiently. It’s an integrated business system that combines the flexibility of a Windows or Unix system with the robustness of a mainframe, which makes it perfect for running essential business applications. In conclusion, the iSeries IBM is a powerful, robust, and efficient business solution. From its server operating system to its specs, every aspect of the iSeries IBM is designed to offer top-notch performance, reliability, and versatility to support the rapidly evolving needs of businesses and industries globally.

IBM i / AS400

IBM i, previously known as AS400, is a midrange server designed for small businesses and departments within large enterprises. Rebranded to IBM System i, it also includes the software required to run and manage the server, making it incredibly versatile. The operating system for IBM i is integrated with its hardware and allows for resource sharing among all its users, making it a popular choice for businesses looking for cost-effective solutions. With the advent of IT advancements such as cloud computing and migration, administrators of IBM i / AS400 have a wide range of tools, including iSeries IBM, at their disposal. Moving on to the contrasting aspects of IBM i vs. AS400, it is to note that both essentially represent the same technology. 

However, the name change represents IBM’s broader strategy to unify divergent product lines under a more cohesive brand. Historically, the term AS400, or Application System/400, was used to refer to these servers and their operating systems. Later, as part of IBM’s rebranding efforts, AS400 was renamed to System i. The current term for the platform, IBM i, represents the integrated nature of the system, with built-in database, security, and web services functionalities. 

The AS400 operating system is renowned for its:

• Robustness
• Stability
• Backward compatibility

It can run applications written for System/36 and System/38, two of IBM’s predecessor systems. Also, newer applications developed in modern languages like Java and PHP can seamlessly run using the AS400 operating system. This backward compatibility, paired with future-proof capabilities, makes the AS400 operating system a reliable choice for enterprises. 

However, learning to use AS400 can come with a steep learning curve. Beginners are recommended to engage in AS400 software training, where they are taught the basics of the system, the language it uses, and the commands needed to navigate through it. Decoding the system’s green screen interface and jargon-based language is an integral part of the training. On completion of the training, newcomers are equipped to easily configure, secure, and manage this system. 

AS400 systems are often used to host several business-critical applications, prominently including accounting software. This type of software is known for its:

• High-speed data processing capacity, which can rapidly perform financial computations and reporting. 
• Robust security measures, backed by IBM’s reputation, give enterprises the confidence to process and store sensitive financial information on these platforms. 

The other topic worth mentioning is the IBM AIX documentation. AIX is IBM’s version of the Unix operating system. Comparing AIX vs. AS400, the primary difference lies in their hardware compatibility; whereas AIX is designed to run on IBM’s RS/6000 systems, AS400 runs on IBM’s Power Systems. IBM AIX documentation provides extensive information about installing, customizing, and managing AIX systems. Finally, given businesses’ increasing reliance on the cloud, AS400 to cloud migration is a hot topic. 

The process involves moving applications, data, and other business elements from the AS400 platform to cloud-based storage systems, improving accessibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. However, AS400 migration should be executed strategically, considering the complexities of migrating business-critical applications.

IBM AIX

With its robust and powerful features, IBM AIX takes a fortified position on the battleground of operating systems. Resourced by IBM, AIX is a series of Unix-based proprietary operating systems designed to cater to businesses, enterprises, and technocrats across all sectors. With a strong link to iSeries IBM, historically known as AS400 midrange servers, AIX pivots the conversation on seamless computing experiences. As a proud AIX architect, IBM has embellished it with unique capabilities that make it overwhelmingly beneficial and viable. 

One of the aspects drawing curiosity is the stance of AIX vs. Linux- two proficient Unix-derived platforms with distinctive utilities. While Linux is open-source and preferred for its versatility and affordability, AIX takes a substantial lead with its salient features like reliability, scalability, and security. As opposed to Linux’s shared kernel model, AIX employs a microkernel structure, offering enhanced kernel customization, smooth updates, and fortified system isolation.

Also noteworthy is the comparative discussion on IBM i vs. AIX, two systems with unparalleled performance yet varying applications and markets. Viewing them as different warriors fighting on disparate battlefronts rather than rivals challenging each other is vital. IBM i, formerly known as the AS400 system, is a platform revered for its simplicity, efficiency, and integrated database. On the other side, AIX offers rugged performance, virtualization facilities, and compatibility with iSeries IBM, playing a pivotal role in robust server environments. 

A question that frequently engages the tech-savvy crowd is, what is IBM AIX used for? The answer encapsulates wide-ranging applications of AIX, like data crunching, web and intranet hosting, file-serving, and operating data centers. Its traits like elasticity, security, and reliability underpin its use in intensive processing environments, supporting mission-critical applications. In an era where cloud solutions dominate the market, AIX cloud migration has become a trending conversation. Seizing this opportunity, Skytap introduced its IBM Power infrastructure-as-a-service which allows AIX workloads to be migrated to the public cloud as-is. This allows businesses to migrate their tasks to the cloud seamlessly while accessing world-class resources and reaping the benefits of scalability, security, and automation.

The process may entail modernizing systems, migrating data, or streamlining applications, all under the guidance of AIX’s comprehensive toolset. Lastly, getting comfortable with IBM AIX commands is integral to operating in an AIX environment. These commands accelerate tasks like file and process management, networking, and system monitoring, acting as building blocks for efficient system management. 

With its spectrum of utilities, IBM AIX undeniably gives a competitive edge to businesses navigating the digital world, shaping a productive, safe, and high-performing platform for technology protagonists to excel.

IBM iSeries in the Cloud with Skytap

Migrating IBM i (AS400I ), AIX, and Linux on IBM Power applications to the cloud can be a complex process, but with the right tools and expertise, businesses can successfully optimize their IT infrastructures to remain efficient and competitive even as technology rapidly advances. Learn more about Skytap on Azure for running your IBM Power workloads in the cloud.