Despite the constant churn of new technologies, some platforms demonstrate a remarkable ability to not just persist, but to remain vital. The IBM AS400, now more accurately known as the IBM i running on Power Systems, is one such enduring force. Unlike many systems from the 1980s – think CDs or floppy disks – the AS400 continues to underpin the operations of countless businesses globally, offering a unique combination of unwavering reliability, impressive scalability, and robust security.

For experienced IT managers and dedicated IBM i users across the United Kingdom, Canada, and the USA, the question isn’t about its past significance, but its ongoing relevance and the tangible advantages it provides in today’s complex business environment. This established system remains a cornerstone for so many advanced users.

Understanding the IBM i’s Core Strengths

The lasting appeal of the IBM i lies in its fundamental design. The original AS400, introduced by IBM in 1988, was more than just hardware; it was a tightly integrated system. This included the robust physical server, the sophisticated OS400 operating system (now IBM i), an integrated database (DB2 for i), and a comprehensive suite of development tools, all engineered to work seamlessly.

This integrated approach was groundbreaking, offering businesses a single, dependable platform capable of efficiently handling substantial data processing demands. From managing intricate financial transactions and meticulously tracking inventory to running complex Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, the AS400 was built for critical workloads.

Its enduring strengths are its inherent reliability, minimizing disruptions and ensuring business continuity; its impressive scalability, allowing it to adapt and grow with a company; and its robust security features, deeply embedded within its architecture, providing a strong foundation for data protection. These core attributes are why it remains a preferred choice for organisations where stability and security are paramount.

The Evolution from AS400 to Modern IBM i

The AS400’s longevity is a story of continuous adaptation. Building on the foundations of IBM’s earlier System/38 and System/36, the AS400’s arrival in 1988 unified these strengths.

As technology advanced, so did the AS400. Recognising its expanding capabilities, IBM strategically rebranded it as the iSeries in 2000, highlighting its growing role in areas like internet applications. This evolution continued with the System i in 2006, and it eventually became a key part of the IBM Power Systems family.

Crucially, the operating system, OS400, has also evolved into the modern IBM i. This ongoing development has kept the platform current. Today’s IBM i is a robust operating system equipped for cloud integration, artificial intelligence, and open-source development.

Clarifying AS400 and IBM i Terminology

While often used interchangeably, “AS400” and “IBM i” have distinct meanings. The AS400 refers to the original hardware and initial operating system from 1988 – the foundational system. IBM i is the modern operating system that evolved from OS400 and runs on IBM’s Power Systems hardware.

The original AS400 hardware is no longer produced, but its core design principles live on in the IBM i operating system, and the colloquial use of AS400 to describe the IBM i shows no sign of disappearing any time soon. A testament to the enduring design principles used in the original system.

Key Advancements in IBM i

The continued relevance of IBM i is driven by ongoing innovation:

  • Support for Modern Languages: IBM i now supports languages like Java, Python, and PHP, enabling the development of integrated, modern applications.
  • Cloud and Open-Source Integration: IBM i integrates with cloud environments and open-source tools like Node.js and Git, offering greater flexibility.
  • Enhanced Security: IBM i continuously improves its security with features like multi-factor authentication and advanced encryption.
  • Improved Performance and Scalability: Leveraging IBM Power Systems, IBM i delivers high performance and scalability for demanding workloads.
  • Streamlined Data Integration: Modern tools simplify the integration of IBM i data with other systems.

These advancements demonstrate that IBM i is a dynamic platform that embraces modern technologies.

Why Businesses Still Choose IBM i

The IBM i remains a strategic choice for several reasons:

  • Unmatched Reliability and Uptime: Its stability ensures business continuity.
  • Robust Security Architecture: Its integrated security provides strong defence against cyber threats.
  • Exceptional Scalability and Performance: It can handle growth and demanding workloads efficiently.
  • Seamless Integration Capabilities: It integrates effectively with various applications and databases.

Industries Reliant on IBM i

The continued use of IBM i across diverse sectors highlights its enduring value:

  • Financial Services: For secure handling of transactions and data.
  • Manufacturing: For managing supply chains and production.
  • Insurance: For processing claims and managing policies.

The Future of IBM i and Modernization Tools

The IBM i’s inherent strengths and ongoing evolution ensure its continued relevance. Solutions like our data spooling software play a vital role in modernising IBM i environments.

CoolSpools enhances IBM i functionality by:

  • Modernizing Reporting: Transforming traditional reports into modern formats with our IBM i file convertor.
  • Automating Processes: Streamlining the distribution of business documents.
  • Facilitating Application Integration: Connecting IBM i data with contemporary applications.
  • Improving Data Accessibility: Making IBM i data more user-friendly.

By using tools like CoolSpools, businesses can maximize their IBM i investments and integrate them into modern IT strategies.

Conclusion: A Foundation for the Future

The IBM i’s story is one of continuous adaptation and enduring value. Its core strengths, combined with ongoing innovation and modernising software like CoolSpools, ensure its continued relevance. For experienced IT managers and advanced IBM i users, the platform remains a powerful and dependable asset, proving that lasting innovation lies in building a robust foundation that can evolve to meet future challenges. The IBM i isn’t just persisting; it’s continuing to drive critical business operations worldwide.

 

AS400 IBM i