In The Spotlight
Calling Stored Procedures. Read Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 of this series.
By Roger Sanders
Editor's Note: This article is excerpted from chapter 6 of QuickStart Guide to Db2 Development with Python, by Roger Sanders.
If an application has one or more transactions that perform a relatively large amount of work with little or no user interaction, those transactions can be encapsulated and stored on the database server as a stored procedure. Stored procedures make it possible to perform data processing operations directly at the server, which typically is a high-performant computer that can provide quick, coordinated data access. More importantly, because a stored procedure is invoked by a single SQL statement (or API/Cursor object method), fewer messages have to be transmitted across the network—only the data that is actually needed at the client has to be sent across the wire.
IBM collaborates with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Specialisterne Foundation, and six Historically Black College & Universities to train underrepresented communities on technology.
By IBM Corporation
IBM today announced education initiatives with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Specialisterne Foundation, and six Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) to provide no-cost STEM job training to U.S. military veterans, neurodivergent learners worldwide, and university students from underrepresented communities in the U.S.
IBM kicked off its annual Think conference in Boston, bringing together clients and IBM Ecosystem partners around the world to discuss how technology drives organizations to excel in a digital world. During the event, IBM senior executives, global business leaders, and industry experts will discuss significant advances in technology and issues such as sustainability, innovation and research, talent retention, and automation.
By IBM Corporation
"Technology is now the source of competitive advantage with digital transformation leading the way. Our clients and partners trust IBM to deliver the innovation behind hybrid cloud, AI, and consulting solutions that are helping to ensure their success," said Arvind Krishna, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, IBM. "Our Think events will showcase how IBM is co-creating with an expanding ecosystem to make progress on the most pressing issues enterprises and society face today."
For those new to free format, getting started is sometimes the toughest part.
By Jim Martin
Editor's Note: This article is excerpted from chapter 4 of Free-Format RPG IV: Third Edition, by Jim Martin.
Frankly, it’s not easy to change the way you’ve done something for a long time, especially programming. If you have come this far and want to try writing a little program in the new format, this book will help you begin. We start our tour of free-format calculations in this chapter, with an overview of the free-format structure and a look at some key operations and features.
'IBM Impact' Aims to Create a More Sustainable, Equitable, and Ethical Future
IBM today announced IBM Impact, a new framework for the company's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) work that reflects how the company aspires to create a more sustainable, equitable, and ethical future. As detailed in the 2021 ESG report issued today, IBM Impact comprises three pillars: Environmental Impact, Equitable Impact, and Ethical Impact. These values have been embedded in IBM's DNA as a company and have driven its work for its employees, stakeholders, and the world over the past century.
Data security and data privacy are terms that often appear in the same sentence. Although some of the means of securing both are identical, there are also critical distinctions between them that mustn't be overlooked when considering service providers.
By John Ghrist
We've likely all heard for many years now about how globalized the world is becoming. In the Internet Age, many points on the planet now communicate and share information instantaneously, and the practice of direct buying and selling of goods across borders has gone from an almost exotic happenstance to a commonplace goal of a majority of U.S. business enterprises in the last two decades. Hand in hand with that has been the need to secure data needed to handle business transactions: customer contact information, credit card and bank account numbers, and routing information are obvious examples. Everyone agrees such things must be kept securely confidential. Yes, we've seen this movie before.
Maybe these companies were able to pivot easily because IBM i doesn’t require the daily hand-holding required to keep other platforms working.
By Steve Pitcher
It’s easy to look at the year 2020 with contempt.
I’ve done it. Most all of us probably have. There’s no reason to do a recap of 2020. It started with a near-miss war with Iran, and it hasn’t let up since. I was joking the other week that the only thing we’re missing in 2020 is the equivalent of the Ten Plagues of Egypt. And we still have a couple of months for that to unfold.
Calling Stored Procedures. Read Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 of this series.
By Roger Sanders
Editor's Note: This article is excerpted from chapter 6 of QuickStart Guide to Db2 Development with Python, by Roger Sanders.
If an application has one or more transactions that perform a relatively large amount of work with little or no user interaction, those transactions can be encapsulated and stored on the database server as a stored procedure. Stored procedures make it possible to perform data processing operations directly at the server, which typically is a high-performant computer that can provide quick, coordinated data access. More importantly, because a stored procedure is invoked by a single SQL statement (or API/Cursor object method), fewer messages have to be transmitted across the network—only the data that is actually needed at the client has to be sent across the wire.
In this second and final part of this short series about mobile app dev, let’s talk about grids and glyphicons.
By Jan Jorgensen
In a previous article, I covered how the grid system in Bootstrap works, so in order not to bore you I will try not to repeat myself.
The grid system in version 4 is still based on a maximum of 12 columns! But even though the grid system seems the same from version 3 to 4, something has changed under the hood. In Bootstrap 3, the grid system was based on floats, but that changed in Bootstrap 4; it is now based on flexbox.
Carol discusses why you should understand the features of IBM i Access Client Solutions (ACS) and why you may not want all users to have access to all features.
By Carol Woodbury
Don’t get me wrong: I am a huge fan of ACS and all the features it provides. But what you may have never done is think about those features from the point of view of an end user. In other words, put yourself in the shoes of some of your end users and examine exactly what parts of ACS they can access and what they can do with those features. Then ask yourself: is that access appropriate for those roles?
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Current Events All Events
Tuesday, May 17, 2022 OCEAN Meeting
IBM i Expert Dan Magid of Eradani
5:30 pm PT - Dinner
6:30 pm PT - Every IBM i Shop Must Have An API Integration Strategy
The “API Economy” is fundamentally transforming the way business is being done today. APIs are dramatically increasing the speed at which companies can deliver new software capabilities, they are facilitating the automation of many formerly manual processes and they are improving customer service. In many industries, you can no longer compete or even participate in the supply chain if you don’t support API communications. Yet, APIs also represent the greatest potential security risk to an organization. So, to take advantage of the promise of APIs while protecting your systems, it is critical to ensure that your API strategy is carefully planned and executed.
In this presentation, we will use real world customer examples and demonstrations to cover:
1. The components of a successful API strategy
2. Planning for API security
3. Easily calling APIs from the IBM i
4. Rapidly providing API access to IBM i functions and data
5. Managing and monitoring APIs i
2. Planning for API security
3. Easily calling APIs from the IBM i
4. Rapidly providing API access to IBM i functions and data
5. Managing and monitoring APIs i
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Dan Magid is the CEO and one of the founders of Eradani, the leading provider of secure API enablement solutions for the IBM i. He has decades of experience with the IBM midrange and is a frequent speaker and writer on IBM i new technology topics. Dan was the CEO of Aldon and oversaw the creation of the Aldon Change Management System and led its growth into the leading software change management system for IBM i. He then held several executive positions in the IBM i arena at Rocket Software before returning to the entrepreneurial world and founding Eradani.
- 17 May 2022 - 17 May 2022
- World Wide Web
May 23-26, 2022
New Orleans Marriott | New Orleans, LA
Register Today!
The COMMON community will gather again in-person after a 2-year hiatus to enjoy learning high quality IBM i education, networking with peers, industry experts, and solution providers, and growing together as a whole.
Mark your calendars for May 23-26 to join COMMON for education, networking, and beignets in one of our favorite conference cities - New Orleans!
- 23 May 2022 - 26 May 2022
- New Orleans Marriott
- 555 Canal Street,New Orleans USA Louisiana 70130
May 26, 2022
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. CST
Modern interfaces like FTP and ODBC completely bypass menu security, often allowing end users and even attackers to view, update, and delete data in the database without the restrictions and auditing supplied by the application.
Unfortunately, the vast majority of IBM i organizations still rely on menu security to protect their data.
Learning about the power and openness of these interfaces is critical for ensuring the integrity of the server’s application data. It’s also an essential step in complying with all formal regulations, including SOX, PCI, and HIPAA.
Join this informative webinar to learn how to close the “back doors” not covered by traditional security schemes. IBM i security expert Robin Tatam will explain exit point security and why this little-understood topic is so important to IBM i organizations.
You’ll also see how one organization was targeted through FTP and learn how they implemented policies that restrict access to only those users who need it.
- 26 May 2022 - 26 May 2022
Tuesday, June 21, 2022
IBM i Expert Barbara Morris
6:00 pm PT - RPG: What's new, and what you might have missed in the past
Free Webinar...
RPG: What's new, and what you might have missed in the past
1. The most recent enhancements to RPG from the past year
2. A few older features that you might have missed
Barbara Morris - Barbara Morris is the lead developer for the RPG compilers in the IBM Toronto Lab. She has been working on the RPG compilers since she started at IBM in 1989 after receiving a Computing Science degree from the University of Alberta. The first enhancement she developed was the ENDIF/ENDDO opcodes for RPG/400 in V2R1. Some of her most recent enhancements were the ON-EXIT and DATA-INTO opcodes and varying-dimension arrays. A few of the other notable enhancements that she developed for RPG include subprocedures, qualified data structures, call-interaction with Java, Open Access: RPG Edition, and fully-free-form RPG.
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For more information:
- 21 June 2022 - 21 June 2022
OCEAN TechCon22 will be taking place July 21-23, 2022!
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Join Liam Allan, Patrick Behr, Scott Forstie, Charlie Guarino, Birgitta Hauser (virtually), Simon Hutchinson, Mark Irish (virtually), Pete Massiello (virtually), Mike Pavlak, Tim Rowe, Robin Tatam (virtually), Carol Woodbury and more speakers to be announced soon!
Details will be available soon.
Contact: Margaret Matthews - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- 21 July 2022 - 23 July 2022
Ghosts and witches—they’re kid stuff. But there really are other things to be afraid of.
By Victoria Mack
This being October, Steve Pitcher has a bit of a Halloween scare for you. But this goblin isn’t a fantasy. It’s real. IBM has announced end of support for the exceptionally popular POWER7 machines. Will IBM offer extended hardware maintenance? Who knows? It hasn’t happened yet. Read Steve’s article to see his perceptions of what some may consider a truly horrifying announcement.
Organizations today use many project management, quality management, and business management standards. I would like to briefly introduce five industry standards that are widely used and recognized in companies worldwide.
By Colleen Garton and Erika McCulloch
Editor's Note: This article is excerpted from chapter 2 of Fundamentals of Technology Project Management, by Colleen Garton and Erika McCulloch.
Part 1, Project Lifecycle, is available here. Part 2, Managing Each Step of the Project Lifecycle here.
The three parts to project management are:
- Standard/Framework
- Methodology
- Project Direction
These standards fit into the first category, Standard/Framework. You can apply more than one standard to a project. For example, you could use ISO and PMBOK® Guide at the same time. Even when using multiple standards, you still need a project methodology and project direction to effectively manage a project.
These days, consumers expect retailers to provide information tailored personally just for them.
In the industry’s current disruptive environment, retail and consumer product companies are competing with new business models and being forced to refresh their consumer experiences and brand engagements to be more relevant.
A new IBM study finds retailers' current strategies to deliver engaging brand experiences are not keeping pace with what customers’ expect and want out of their brick and click shopping experiences.
Do you realize how many of your personal or business devices are connected to the Internet? Let's talk about that.
By Jan Jorgensen
The Internet of Things (IoT): You've heard somebody talk about it; or you've read about it in a newspaper, in a tech magazine, or on a website; or you've attended a seminar or conference where somebody told you about the next big thing.
SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS
By HelpSystems
Editor's note: This article introduces the February 2022 Report: 2022 IBM i Marketplace Survey Results, which is available to download from the MC White Paper Center.
Cybersecurity continues to top the charts as the main concern when planning an IT environment.
Perhaps the most consistent data point in the IBM i Marketplace Survey Results is the ongoing cybersecurity threat. Over the past six years, cybersecurity has been the main concern for people planning their IT environment, and this year was no exception. Although it has decreased since last year’s results, 62% of respondents still said this was their number one concern. And although organizations prioritizing security seem to be implementing multiple solutions, it is still alarming that, on average, almost 30% of respondents do not plan to implement each of the surveyed cybersecurity solutions. If your organization has concerns over IBM i cybersecurity skills, managed security services could be a way of filling in any holes.
IBM Notes Domino gets a new future with HCL Technologies.
By Steve Pitcher
On October 25, 2017, IBM announced (well, they blogged it) that they were entering into a strategic partnership with HCL Technologies to give the following products a new lease on development life:
RESOURCE CENTER
WHITE PAPERS
WEBCAST
TRIAL SOFTWARE
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Mobile Computing and the IBM i
Mobile computing is rapidly maturing into a solid platform for delivering enterprise applications. Many IBM i shops today are realizing that integrating their IBM i with mobile applications is the fast path to improved business workflows, better customer relations, and more responsive business reporting.This ASNA whitepaper takes a look at mobile computing for the IBM i. It discusses the different ways mobile applications may be used within the enterprise and how ASNA products solve the challenges mobile presents. It also presents the case that you already have the mobile programming team your projects need: that team is your existing RPG development team!
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Automate IBM i Operations using Wireless Devices
Download the technical whitepaper on MANAGING YOUR IBM i WIRELESSLY and (optionally) register to download an absolutely FREE software trail. This whitepaper provides an in-depth review of the native IBM i technology and ACO MONITOR's advanced two-way messaging features to remotely manage your IBM i while in or away from the office. Notify on-duty personnel of system events and remotely respond to complex problems (via your Smartphone) before they become critical-24/7. Problem solved! -
DR Strategy Guide from Maxava: Brand New Edition - now fully updated to include Cloud!
PRACTICAL TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT DISASTER RECOVERY IN YOUR IBM i ENVIRONMENT
CLOUD VS. ON-PREMISE?
- COMPREHENSIVE CHECKLISTS
- RISK COST CALCULATIONS
- BUSINESS CASE FRAMEWORK
- DR SOLUTIONS OVERVIEW
- RFP BUILDER
Download your free copy of DR Strategy Guide for IBM i from Maxava today. -
White Paper: Node.js for Enterprise IBM i Modernization
If your business is thinking about modernizing your legacy IBM i (also known as AS/400 or iSeries) applications, you will want to read this white paper first!
Download this paper and learn how Node.js can ensure that you:
- Modernize on-time and budget - no more lengthy, costly, disruptive app rewrites!
- Retain your IBM i systems of record
- Find and hire new development talent
- Integrate new Node.js applications with your existing RPG, Java, .Net, and PHP apps
- Extend your IBM i capabilties to include Watson API, Cloud, and Internet of Things
Read Node.js for Enterprise IBM i Modernization Now! -
2020 IBM i Marketplace Survey Results
This year marks the sixth edition of the popular IBM i Marketplace Survey Results. Each year, HelpSystems sets out to gather data about how businesses use the IBM i platform and the IT initiatives it supports. Year over year, the survey has begun to reveal long-term trends that give insight into the future of this trusted technology.
More than 500 IBM i users from around the globe participated in this year’s survey, and we’re so happy to share the results with you. We hope you’ll find the information interesting and useful as you evaluate your own IT projects.
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AIX Security Basics eCourse
With so many organizations depending on AIX day to day, ensuring proper security and configuration is critical to ensure the safety of your environment. Don’t let common threats put your critical AIX servers at risk. Avoid simple mistakes and start to build a long-term plan with this AIX Security eCourse. Enroll today to get easy to follow instructions on topics like:
- Removing extraneous files
- Patching systems efficiently
- Setting and validating permissions
- Managing service considerations
- Getting overall visibility into your networks
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Developer Kit: Making a Business Case for Modernization and Beyond
Having trouble getting management approval for modernization projects? The problem may be you're not speaking enough "business" to them.
This Developer Kit provides you study-backed data and a ready-to-use business case template to help get your very next development project approved!
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What to Do When Your AS/400 Talent Retires
IT managers hoping to find new IBM i talent are discovering that the pool of experienced RPG programmers and operators or administrators is small.This guide offers strategies and software suggestions to help you plan IT staffing and resources and smooth the transition after your AS/400 talent retires. Read on to learn:
- Why IBM i skills depletion is a top concern
- How leading organizations are coping
- Where automation will make the biggest impact
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IBM i Resources Retiring?
Let’s face it: IBM i experts and RPG programmers are retiring from the workforce. Are you prepared to handle their departure?
Our panel of IBM i experts—Chuck Losinski, Robin Tatam, Richard Schoen, and Tom Huntington—will outline strategies that allow your company to cope with IBM i skills depletion by adopting these strategies that allow you to get the job done without deep expertise on the OS:
- Automate IBM i processes
- Use managed services to help fill the gaps
- Secure the system against data loss and viruses
The strategies you discover in this webinar will help you ensure that your system of record—your IBM i—continues to deliver a powerful business advantage, even as staff retires. -
Backup and Recovery Considerations for Security Data and Encrypted Backups
Security expert Carol Woodbury is joined by Debbie Saugen. Debbie is an expert on IBM i backup and recovery, disaster recovery, and high availability, helping IBM i shops build and implement effective business continuity plans.
In today’s business climate, business continuity is more important than ever. But 83 percent of organizations are not totally confident in their backup strategy.
During this webinar, Carol and Debbie discuss the importance of a good backup plan, how to ensure you’re backing up your security information, and your options for encrypted back-ups. -
Profound.js: The Agile Approach to Legacy Modernization
In this presentation, Alex Roytman and Liam Allan will unveil a completely new and unique way to modernize your legacy applications. Learn how Agile Modernization:
- Uses the power of Node.js in place of costly system re-writes and migrations
- Enables you to modernize legacy systems in an iterative, low-risk manner
- Makes it easier to hire developers for your modernization efforts
- Integrates with Profound UI (GUI modernization) for a seamless, end-to-end legacy modernization solution -
Data Breaches: Is IBM i Really at Risk?
IBM i is known for its security, but this OS could be more vulnerable than you think.
Although Power Servers often live inside the safety of the perimeter firewall, the risk of suffering a data leak or data corruption remains high.
Watch noted IBM i security expert Robin Tatam as he discusses common ways that this supposedly “secure” operating system may actually be vulnerable and who the culprits might be. -
Easy Mobile Development
Watch this on-demand webinar and learn how to rapidly and easily deploy mobile apps to your organization – even when working with legacy RPG code! IBM Champion Scott Klement will demonstrate how to:
- Develop RPG applications without mobile development experience
- Deploy secure applications for any mobile device
- Build one application for all platforms, including Apple and Android
- Extend the life and reach of your IBM i (aka iSeries, AS400) platform
You’ll see examples from customers who have used our products and services to deliver the mobile applications of their dreams, faster and easier than they ever thought possible! -
Profound UI: Unlock True Modernization from your IBM i Enterprise
Modern, web-based applications can make your Enterprise more efficient, connected and engaged. This session will demonstrate how the Profound UI framework is the best and most native way to convert your existing RPG applications and develop new modern applications for your business. Additionally, you will learn how you can address modernization across your Enterprise, including databases and legacy source code, with Profound Logic. -
Node Webinar Series Pt. 1: The World of Node.js on IBM i
Have you been wondering about Node.js? Our free Node.js Webinar Series takes you from total beginner to creating a fully-functional IBM i Node.js business application.Part 1 will teach you what Node.js is, why it's a great option for IBM i shops, and how to take advantage of the ecosystem surrounding Node.
In addition to background information, our Director of Product Development Scott Klement will demonstrate applications that take advantage of the Node Package Manager (npm).
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5 New and Unique Ways to Use the IBM i Audit Journal
You must be asking yourself: am I doing everything I can to protect my organization’s data? Tune in as our panel of IBM i high availability experts discuss:
- Why companies don’t test role swaps when they know they should
- Whether high availability in the cloud makes sense for IBM i users
- Why some organizations don’t have high availability yet
- How to get high availability up and running at your organization
- High availability considerations for today’s security concerns -
Profound.js 2.0: Extend the Power of Node to your IBM i Applications
In this Webinar, we'll demonstrate how Profound.js 2.0 enables you to easily adopt Node.js in your business, and to take advantage of the many benefits of Node, including access to a much larger pool of developers for IBM i and access to countless reusable open source code packages on npm (Node Package Manager).
You will see how Profound.js 2.0 allows you to:- Provide RPG-like capabilities for server-side JavaScript.
- Easily create web and mobile application interfaces for Node on IBM i.
- Let existing RPG programs call Node.js modules directly, and vice versa.
- Automatically generate code for Node.js.
- Automatically converts existing RPGLE code into clean, simplified Node.js code.
Download and watch today!
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Make Modern Apps You'll Love with Profound UI & Profound.js
Whether you have green screens or a drab GUI, your outdated apps can benefit from modern source code, modern GUIs, and modern tools.
Profound Logic's Alex Roytman and Liam Allan are here to show you how Free-format RPG and Node.js make it possible to deliver applications your whole business will love:- Transform legacy RPG code to modern free-format RPG and Node.js
- Deliver truly modern application interfaces with Profound UI
- Extend your RPG applications to include Web Services and NPM packages with Node.js
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Accelerating Programmer Productivity with Sequel
Most business intelligence tools are just that: tools, a means to an end but not an accelerator. Yours could even be slowing you down. But what if your BI tool didn't just give you a platform for query-writing but also improved programmer productivity?
Watch the recorded webinar to see how Sequel:- Makes creating complex results simple
- Eliminates barriers to data sources
- Increases flexibility with data usage and distribution
Accelerated productivity makes everyone happy, from programmer to business user.
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Business Intelligence is Changing: Make Your Game Plan
It’s time to develop a strategy that will help you meet your informational challenges head-on. Watch the webinar to learn how to set your IT department up for business intelligence success. You’ll learn how the right data access tool will help you:- Access IBM i data faster
- Deliver useful information to executives and business users
- Empower users with secure data access
Ready to make your game plan and finally keep up with your data access requests?
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Controlling Insider Threats on IBM i
Let’s face facts: servers don’t hack other servers. Despite the avalanche of regulations, news headlines remain chock full of stories about data breaches, all initiated by insiders or intruders masquerading as insiders.
User profiles are often duplicated or restored and are rarely reviewed for the appropriateness of their current configuration. This increases the risk of the profile being able to access data without the intended authority or having privileges that should be reserved for administrators.
Watch security expert Robin Tatam as he discusses a new approach for onboarding new users on IBM i and best-practices techniques for managing and monitoring activities after they sign on. -
Don't Just Settle for Query/400...
While introducing Sequel Data Access, we’ll address common frustrations with Query/400, discuss major data access, distribution trends, and more advanced query tools. Plus, you’ll learn how a tool like Sequel lightens IT’s load by:- Accessing real-time data, so you can make real-time decisions
- Providing run-time prompts, so users can help themselves
- Delivering instant results in Microsoft Excel and PDF, without the wait
- Automating the query process with on-demand data, dashboards, and scheduled jobs -
How to Manage Documents the Easy Way
What happens when your company depends on an outdated document management strategy?
Everything is harder.
You don’t need to stick with status quo anymore.
Watch the webinar to learn how to put effective document management into practice and:- Capture documents faster, instead of wasting everyone’s time
- Manage documents easily, so you can always find them
- Distribute documents automatically, and move on to the next task
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Lessons Learned from the AS/400 Breach
Get actionable info to avoid becoming the next cyberattack victim.
In “Data breach digest—Scenarios from the field,” Verizon documented an AS/400 security breach. Whether you call it AS/400, iSeries, or IBM i, you now have proof that the system has been breached.
Watch IBM i security expert Robin Tatam give an insightful discussion of the issues surrounding this specific scenario.
Robin will also draw on his extensive cybersecurity experience to discuss policies, processes, and configuration details that you can implement to help reduce the risk of your system being the next victim of an attack. -
Overwhelmed by Operating Systems?
In this 30-minute recorded webinar, our experts demonstrate how you can:- Manage multiple platforms from a central location
- View monitoring results in a single pane of glass on your desktop or mobile device
- Take advantage of best practice, plug-and-play monitoring templates
- Create rules to automate daily checks across your entire infrastructure
- Receive notification if something is wrong or about to go wrong
This presentation includes a live demo of Network Server Suite.
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Real-Time Disk Monitoring with Robot Monitor
You need to know when IBM i disk space starts to disappear and where it has gone before system performance and productivity start to suffer. Our experts will show you how Robot Monitor can help you pinpoint exactly when your auxiliary storage starts to disappear and why, so you can start taking a proactive approach to disk monitoring and analysis. You’ll also get insight into:- The main sources of disk consumption
- How to monitor temporary storage and QTEMP objects in real time
- How to monitor objects and libraries in real time and near-real time
- How to track long-term disk trends
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Stop Re-keying Data Between IBM I and Other Applications
Many business still depend on RPG for their daily business processes and report generation.Wouldn’t it be nice if you could stop re-keying data between IBM i and other applications? Or if you could stop replicating data and start processing orders faster? Or what if you could automatically extract data from existing reports instead of re-keying? It’s all possible. Watch this webinar to learn about:- The data dilemma
- 3 ways to stop re-keying data
- Data automation in practice
Plus, see how HelpSystems data automation software will help you stop re-keying data.
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The Top Five RPG Open Access Myths....BUSTED!
When it comes to IBM Rational Open Access: RPG Edition, there are still many misconceptions - especially where application modernization is concerned!In this Webinar, we'll address some of the biggest myths about RPG Open Access, including:
- Modernizing with RPG OA requires significant changes to the source code
- The RPG language is outdated and impractical for modernizing applications
- Modernizing with RPG OA is the equivalent to "screen scraping"
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Time to Remove the Paper from Your Desk and Become More Efficient
Too much paper is wasted. Attempts to locate documents in endless filing cabinets.And distributing documents is expensive and takes up far too much time.
These are just three common reasons why it might be time for your company to implement a paperless document management system.
Watch the webinar to learn more and discover how easy it can be to:- Capture
- Manage
- And distribute documents digitally
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IBM i: It’s Not Just AS/400
IBM’s Steve Will talks AS/400, POWER9, cognitive systems, and everything in between
Are there still companies that use AS400? Of course!
IBM i was built on the same foundation.
Watch this recorded webinar with IBM i Chief Architect Steve Will and IBM Power Champion Tom Huntington to gain a unique perspective on the direction of this platform, including:- IBM i development strategies in progress at IBM
- Ways that Watson will shake hands with IBM i
- Key takeaways from the AS/400 days
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Ask the RDi Experts
Watch this recording where Jim Buck, Susan Gantner, and Charlie Guarino answered your questions, including:- What are the “hidden gems” in RDi that can make me more productive?
- What makes RDi Debug better than the STRDBG green screen debugger?
- How can RDi help me find out if I’ve tested all lines of a program?
- What’s the best way to transition from PDM to RDi?
- How do I convince my long-term developers to use RDi?
This is a unique, online opportunity to hear how you can get more out of RDi.
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Node.js on IBM i Webinar Series Pt. 2: Setting Up Your Development Tools
Have you been wondering about Node.js? Our free Node.js Webinar Series takes you from total beginner to creating a fully-functional IBM i Node.js business application. In Part 2, Brian May teaches you the different tooling options available for writing code, debugging, and using Git for version control. Attend this webinar to learn:- Different tools to develop Node.js applications on IBM i
- Debugging Node.js
- The basics of Git and tools to help those new to it
- Using NodeRun.com as a pre-built development environment
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Inside the Integrated File System (IFS)
During this webinar, you’ll learn basic tips, helpful tools, and integrated file system commands—including WRKLNK—for managing your IFS directories and Access Client Solutions (ACS). We’ll answer your most pressing IFS questions, including:- What is stored inside my IFS directories?
- How do I monitor the IFS?
- How do I replicate the IFS or back it up?
- How do I secure the IFS?
Understanding what the integrated file system is and how to work with it must be a critical part of your systems management plans for IBM i.
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Expert Tips for IBM i Security: Beyond the Basics
In this session, IBM i security expert Robin Tatam provides a quick recap of IBM i security basics and guides you through some advanced cybersecurity techniques that can help you take data protection to the next level. Robin will cover:- Reducing the risk posed by special authorities
- Establishing object-level security
- Overseeing user actions and data access
Don't miss this chance to take your knowledge of IBM i security beyond the basics.
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5 IBM i Security Quick Wins
In today’s threat landscape, upper management is laser-focused on cybersecurity. You need to make progress in securing your systems—and make it fast.
There’s no shortage of actions you could take, but what tactics will actually deliver the results you need? And how can you find a security strategy that fits your budget and time constraints?
Join top IBM i security expert Robin Tatam as he outlines the five fastest and most impactful changes you can make to strengthen IBM i security this year.
Your system didn’t become unsecure overnight and you won’t be able to turn it around overnight either. But quick wins are possible with IBM i security, and Robin Tatam will show you how to achieve them. -
How to Meet the Newest Encryption Requirements on IBM i
A growing number of compliance mandates require sensitive data to be encrypted. But what kind of encryption solution will satisfy an auditor and how can you implement encryption on IBM i? Watch this on-demand webinar to find out how to meet today’s most common encryption requirements on IBM i. You’ll also learn:- Why disk encryption isn’t enough
- What sets strong encryption apart from other solutions
- Important considerations before implementing encryption
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Security Bulletin: Malware Infection Discovered on IBM i Server!
Malicious programs can bring entire businesses to their knees—and IBM i shops are not immune. It’s critical to grasp the true impact malware can have on IBM i and the network that connects to it. Attend this webinar to gain a thorough understanding of the relationships between:- Viruses, native objects, and the integrated file system (IFS)
- Power Systems and Windows-based viruses and malware
- PC-based anti-virus scanning versus native IBM i scanning
There are a number of ways you can minimize your exposure to viruses. IBM i security expert Sandi Moore explains the facts, including how to ensure you're fully protected and compliant with regulations such as PCI.
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Fight Cyber Threats with IBM i Encryption
Cyber attacks often target mission-critical servers, and those attack strategies are constantly changing. To stay on top of these threats, your cybersecurity strategies must evolve, too. In this session, IBM i security expert Robin Tatam provides a quick recap of IBM i security basics and guides you through some advanced cybersecurity techniques that can help you take data protection to the next level. Robin will cover:- Reducing the risk posed by special authorities
- Establishing object-level security
- Overseeing user actions and data access
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10 Practical IBM i Security Tips for Surviving Covid-19 and Working From Home
Now that many organizations have moved to a work from home model, security concerns have risen.During this session Carol Woodbury will discuss the issues that the world is currently seeing such as increased malware attacks and then provide practical actions you can take to both monitor and protect your IBM i during this challenging time.
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How to Transfer IBM i Data to Microsoft Excel
3 easy ways to get IBM i data into Excel every time
There’s an easy, more reliable way to import your IBM i data to Excel? It’s called Sequel. During this webinar, our data access experts demonstrate how you can simplify the process of getting data from multiple sources—including Db2 for i—into Excel. Watch to learn how to:- Download your IBM i data to Excel in a single step
- Deliver data to business users in Excel via email or a scheduled job
- Access IBM i data directly using the Excel add-in in Sequel
Make 2020 the year you finally see your data clearly, quickly, and securely. Start by giving business users the ability to access crucial business data from IBM i the way they want it—in Microsoft Excel.
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HA Alternatives: MIMIX Is Not Your Only Option on IBM i
In this recorded webinar, our experts introduce you to the new HA transition technology available with our Robot HA software. You’ll learn how to:- Transition your rules from MIMIX (if you’re happy with them)
- Simplify your day-to-day activities around high availability
- Gain back time in your work week
- Make your CEO happy about reducing IT costs
Don’t stick with a legacy high availability solution that makes you uncomfortable when transitioning to something better can be simple, safe, and cost-effective.
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Node Webinar Series Pt. 1: The World of Node.js on IBM i
Have you been wondering about Node.js? Our free Node.js Webinar Series takes you from total beginner to creating a fully-functional IBM i Node.js business application.
Part 1 will teach you what Node.js is, why it's a great option for IBM i shops, and how to take advantage of the ecosystem surrounding Node.
In addition to background information, our Director of Product Development Scott Klement will demonstrate applications that take advantage of the Node Package Manager (npm).
Watch Now. -
The Biggest Mistakes in IBM i Security
The Biggest Mistakes in IBM i Security
Here’s the harsh reality: cybersecurity pros have to get their jobs right every single day, while an attacker only has to succeed once to do incredible damage.
Whether that’s thousands of exposed records, millions of dollars in fines and legal fees, or diminished share value, it’s easy to judge organizations that fall victim.IBM i enjoys an enviable reputation for security, but no system is impervious to mistakes.
Join this webinar to learn about the biggest errors made when securing a Power Systems server.
This knowledge is critical for ensuring integrity of your application data and preventing you from becoming the next Equifax. It’s also essential for complying with all formal regulations, including SOX, PCI, GDPR, and HIPAA
Watch Now.
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Backup and Recovery on IBM i: Your Strategy for the Unexpected
Robot automates the routine tasks of iSeries backup and recovery, saving you time and money and making the process safer and more reliable. Automate your backups with the Robot Backup and Recovery Solution. Key features include:
- Simplified backup procedures
- Easy data encryption
- Save media management
- Guided restoration
- Seamless product integration
Make sure your data survives when catastrophe hits. Try the Robot Backup and Recovery Solution FREE for 30 days. -
Manage IBM i Messages by Exception with Robot
Managing messages on your IBM i can be more than a full-time job if you have to do it manually. How can you be sure you won’t miss important system events?
Automate your message center with the Robot Message Management Solution. Key features include:
- Automated message management
- Tailored notifications and automatic escalation
- System-wide control of your IBM i partitions
- Two-way system notifications from your mobile device
- Seamless product integration
Try the Robot Message Management Solution FREE for 30 days. -
Easiest Way to Save Money? Stop Printing IBM i Reports
Robot automates report bursting, distribution, bundling, and archiving, and offers secure, selective online report viewing.
Manage your reports with the Robot Report Management Solution. Key features include:
- Automated report distribution
- View online without delay
- Browser interface to make notes
- Custom retention capabilities
- Seamless product integration
Rerun another report? Never again. Try the Robot Report Management Solution FREE for 30 days. -
Hassle-Free IBM i Operations around the Clock
For over 30 years, Robot has been a leader in systems management for IBM i.
Manage your job schedule with the Robot Job Scheduling Solution. Key features include:
- Automated batch, interactive, and cross-platform scheduling
- Event-driven dependency processing
- Centralized monitoring and reporting
- Audit log and ready-to-use reports
- Seamless product integration
Scale your software, not your staff. Try the Robot Job Scheduling Solution FREE for 30 days. -
ACO MONITOR Manages your IBM i 24/7 and Notifies You When Your IBM i Needs Assistance!
More than a paging system - ACO MONITOR is a complete systems management solution for your Power Systems running IBM i. ACO MONITOR manages your Power System 24/7, uses advanced technology (like two-way messaging) to notify on-duty support personnel, and responds to complex problems before they reach critical status.ACO MONITOR is proven technology and is capable of processing thousands of mission-critical events daily. The software is pre-configured, easy to install, scalable, and greatly improves data center efficiency.
Book Reviews
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Book Review: The Modern RPG IV Language, Fourth Edition
This book isn't a training manual; it's a reference book.
The Modern RPG IV Language, Fourth Edition by Robert Cozzi, Jr. is the latest version of a book that has enjoyed a long history of popularity in the RPG community. With this book, MC Press continues its tradition of providing relevant and timely materials in a quality book format.
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Book Review: DB2 9 Fundamentals
Whether you want to obtain an IBM certified DB2 professional certification or simply become well-rounded in the fundamental concepts of DB2 and general database theory, this is your book.
Roger E. Sanders has created one of today's greatest technical certification books, DB2 9 Fundamentals, to prepare you for everything you need to know to become DB2 9 certified per IBM's standards.
Sanders kicks things off with a chapter dedicated to identifying the various types of DB2 professional certifications that are available and the professional roles at which each is aimed. He also walks you through the complete process of obtaining your certification, first taking you through the steps to register for the exam and then providing examples of what to expect on the exam in terms of its format. If you were at all wondering what to expect, then wonder no more: It's all clearly spelled out in his opening dialog! -
Book Review: SOA for the Business Developer
If you want to know how SOA works in the real world, this is your book.
By Phil LawThere's a lot of hype and fanfare surrounding service-oriented architecture (SOA), but the authors of SOA for the Business Developer have obviously gotten their hands dirty participating in real-world SOA projects. The content of their book reflects that experience.
They begin by pointing out the simple truth that "SOA includes ideas that have been around for decades." Comparing and contrasting new concepts with old, familiar software design principles quickly brings the reader up to speed with the overarching principles of SOA.
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Book Review: JavaScript for the Business Developer
There's no faster, easier way to become proficient in JavaScript.
By Jan Jorgensen This book landed on my desk just before my holiday in Greece. I looked at it and thought, "How can anybody cover such a large subject in just 160 pages? That's not possible." But it is possible, and that's the strongest force about this book: It's short, it's down to business, it's concise, and most important, it's full of great and useful examples and sample code that you can download.
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Book Review: The IBM i Programmer's Guide to PHP
Both a primer and a reference, this book is a must-have for anyone who wants to program in PHP.
By Mike Pavlak
After developing Web solutions for the iSeries in Net.Data and then getting a sour taste from Java, I wanted something better. PHP was certainly the right choice, but making it run on an iSeries at the time was no small feat. Then Zend came to the table, and the rest, as they say, is history. There is no way any of us on the ground floor of this amazing union could have anticipated this level of excitement and interest. We continue to see huge numbers being drawn to PHP on IBM i as well as Linux, UNIX, and Windows. And this book comes at just the right time; it's both a primer and a reference.
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Book Review: You Want to Do WHAT with PHP?
If you're serious about programming in PHP, get a book that treats you that way.
Written by Cal EvansI hate getting books for review that are written by friends of mine. I have a strict policy that I won't review a book I don't like. This leads to awkward conversations if, after skimming the book, I decide not to review it. Thankfully, that isn't the case with this book. Today, I want to talk about You Want to Do WHAT with PHP?, written by my friend and former co-worker, Kevin Schroeder. (I used to work at Zend; Kevin still does.)
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Book Review: Selling Information Governance to the Business
Who governs the information that runs your company?
Written by Thomas M. StockwellWe've all witnessed the explosion of information within our organizations. Recent studies have estimated that nearly 15 petabytes—15 million gigabytes—of data are created every day. This data represents the backbone of how our industries interact, how they manage their businesses, how they perceive themselves, and how they position themselves to compete. It doesn't reside on any individual computing platform, application, or corporate silo, but it has an incalculable value that represents the lifeblood of our commerce.
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Book Review: DB2 9.7 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows Database Administration (Exam 541)
This book, written by the creator of the certification exam, reveals exactly what you'll need to know to prep for the test.
Written by Kent MilliganA couple of years ago, I had the pleasure of working with Roger Sanders on the creation of a couple of DB2 certification exams. During the exam creation process, I was impressed by the deep knowledge and thoroughness that Roger brought to the process. As I made my way through this certification book, I found the same qualities coming through the pages time and time again as Roger reviews the various aspects of database administration for the DB2 9.7 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows (LUW) product.
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Book Review: IBM i Security: Administration and Compliance
If you have any interest in IBM i security, whether as an administrator, a programmer, or an auditor, then this book is the perfect resource.
Written by Robin TatamIn this era of legislative and regulatory mandates, computer security has quickly become one of the most popular—and critical—initiatives for organizations of every size and in every business sector. Even those that are not forced to comply with an official directive should consider enhancing their security to ensure protection of their business data assets.
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Book Review: Big Data Analytics: Disruptive Technologies for Changing the Game
The disciplines of data analytics are evolving to meet the new challenges of big data.
Written by Thomas M. StockwellMost traditional approaches to data analytics aim to align the operational activities of the organization with the specific business strategies of C-level executives. The process accomplishes this by identifying key measurements of business performance, developing the internal (or external) metrics and governance principles, and then implementing a data analytics framework to deliver the information accurately. This enables management to monitor the key performance metrics and instruct managers where improvements are required.