CICS VSAM Transparency Modernization Guide

CICS VSAM Transparency allows applications to access VSAM data through Db2. It intercepts VSAM calls and translates them into equivalent Db2 SQL statements. This enables migration of VSAM data to Db2 without requiring extensive application changes.

The product supports VSAM KSDS, ESDS, and RRDS file types. It translates VSAM operations such as READ, WRITE, REWRITE, and DELETE into corresponding SQL operations against Db2 tables.

Configuration involves defining VSAM file-to-Db2 table mappings. This is typically done through control statements or configuration files that specify the corresponding Db2 table and column names for each VSAM field.

CICS VSAM Transparency uses standard Db2 connectivity protocols. It leverages the existing Db2 infrastructure for data access and does not introduce new communication protocols.

The core components include the VSAM intercept module, the SQL translator, and the configuration repository. The VSAM intercept module resides within the CICS address space and intercepts VSAM calls. The SQL translator converts these calls into Db2 SQL statements. The configuration repository stores the VSAM-to-Db2 mappings.

The VSAM intercept module communicates with the SQL translator via internal CICS mechanisms. The SQL translator then uses standard Db2 APIs (e.g., call attach facility) to interact with the Db2 database.

CICS VSAM Transparency primarily uses Db2 as its storage mechanism. VSAM data is migrated to Db2 tables, and all subsequent data access is performed against these tables.

The product leverages standard Db2 security mechanisms for authentication and authorization. It integrates with existing security systems such as RACF or ACF2 to control access to Db2 tables.

By migrating VSAM data to Db2, organizations can leverage Db2's advanced features such as data replication, backup, and recovery. This improves data availability and disaster recovery capabilities.

The product reduces the need for specialized VSAM skills. By moving to Db2, organizations can leverage their existing Db2 expertise and reduce training costs.

Migrating VSAM data to Db2 centralizes data management and improves data governance. This ensures data consistency and compliance with regulatory requirements.

CICS VSAM Transparency supports authentication methods provided by Db2, including RACF, ACF2, and other external security managers (ESM). It leverages Db2's authentication mechanisms to verify user identities.

The product uses the access control model provided by Db2. This typically involves granting privileges to users or groups to access specific Db2 tables and columns. The access control is managed through Db2's GRANT and REVOKE statements.

Data encryption is handled by Db2. CICS VSAM Transparency does not provide its own encryption mechanisms. Organizations can use Db2's encryption features to encrypt data at rest and in transit.

CICS VSAM Transparency leverages Db2's audit and logging capabilities. All data access and modification operations are logged by Db2, providing a comprehensive audit trail. These logs can be used for security monitoring and compliance reporting.

The primary administrative interface is the Db2 command-line interface (CLP). Administrators use the CLP to manage Db2 tables, grant privileges, and monitor system performance. Configuration parameters are typically set through Db2 configuration files.

User management is handled through Db2's user management facilities. Administrators use SQL statements such as CREATE USER and DROP USER to manage user accounts. User authentication is typically integrated with an external security manager such as RACF or ACF2.

Key configuration parameters include Db2 subsystem parameters, VSAM-to-Db2 table mappings, and security settings. These parameters are typically stored in Db2 configuration files and are managed through the Db2 CLP.

CICS VSAM Transparency leverages Db2's monitoring and logging capabilities. Administrators can use Db2's monitoring tools to track system performance, identify bottlenecks, and troubleshoot issues. Db2's logs provide a detailed audit trail of all data access and modification operations.