Attunity Connect Modernization Guide

Attunity Connect provides connectivity between various database management systems and applications. It enables access to data sources like DB2, Oracle, Sybase, Adabas, IMS, VSAM, and DB2 on z/OS through standard interfaces such as ODBC, JDBC, OLE DB, and ADO.NET.

Attunity Connect is middleware. It acts as a bridge between applications and databases, providing a standardized way to access data regardless of the underlying database system.

Organizations that require seamless data access across heterogeneous database environments often use Attunity Connect. This includes enterprises with mainframe systems and distributed databases.

A company should consider using Attunity Connect when they need to provide standard access to data residing in various database systems, especially when some of those systems are on a mainframe. It simplifies data integration and application development.

Alternatives include IBM Data Server Client, Progress DataDirect, and Informatica PowerExchange. Attunity Connect distinguishes itself with its focus on providing access to mainframe data sources alongside other database systems.

Attunity Connect runs on z/OS. It typically operates within an LPAR and is dependent on the z/OS operating system. It supports data sources such as Adabas, IMS, VSAM, and DB2.

Attunity Connect requires a network connection between the client application and the z/OS system where the data resides. It uses standard protocols like TCP/IP for communication.

Attunity Connect exposes ODBC, JDBC, OLE DB, and ADO.NET interfaces. These interfaces allow applications to access data using standard SQL queries and data access methods.

The main system components include the Attunity Connect Server, the data access drivers, and the configuration repository. The server processes client requests, the drivers handle communication with the databases, and the repository stores configuration information.

Attunity Connect simplifies data access and integration, reducing the complexity of connecting to diverse data sources. This allows organizations to leverage their existing data assets more effectively.

By providing a standard interface to access mainframe data, Attunity Connect enables organizations to integrate mainframe data with modern applications and analytics platforms.

Attunity Connect can reduce development time and costs by providing a consistent data access layer. Developers can use standard SQL and data access methods without needing to understand the intricacies of each database system.

Attunity Connect supports various authentication methods, including LDAP and Kerberos, to control access to data sources. It uses an access control model based on user roles and permissions.

Attunity Connect uses encryption to protect data in transit. It supports SSL/TLS for encrypting network communication between the client and the server.

Attunity Connect provides audit logging capabilities to track data access and modifications. These logs can be used for security monitoring and compliance purposes.

Attunity Connect is typically deployed on-premise, often within the same data center as the mainframe systems it connects to. It requires technical expertise to configure and maintain.

Ongoing operational requirements include monitoring system performance, managing user access, and applying software updates. Regular maintenance is needed to ensure the system remains secure and reliable.

Implementation challenges can include configuring network connectivity, setting up authentication, and optimizing performance for large data volumes. Proper planning and testing are essential.