IBM IMS Connect | IBM | Mainframe Modernization Platform

Product Overview

IBM IMS Connect by IBM is a Integration + TCP/IP + Middleware solution for mainframe environments.

Key use cases include: TCP/IP access to IMS transactions from distributed systems, RESTful API exposure of IMS programs via z/OS Connect, IMS workload balancing across Parallel Sysplex, Secure IMS connectivity with TLS encryption, Modern web and mobile access to IMS applications.

Modernization Strategies

Rehost

Timeline:: 6-12 months

Lift-and-shift to cloud infrastructure with minimal code changes. Fast migration with lower risk.

Refactor (Recommended)

Timeline:: 18-24 months

Optimize application architecture for cloud while preserving business logic. Best ROI long-term.

Replatform

Timeline:: 3-5 years

Complete rewrite to cloud-native architecture with microservices and modern tech stack.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is IBM IMS Connect?

IBM IMS Connect provides TCP/IP connectivity to IMS Transaction Manager and IMS Database Manager on z/OS.

Who makes IBM IMS Connect?

IBM IMS Connect is developed and maintained by IBM. It runs on z/OS platforms.

What are the main use cases for IBM IMS Connect?

TCP/IP access to IMS transactions from distributed systems, RESTful API exposure of IMS programs via z/OS Connect, IMS workload balancing across Parallel Sysplex, Secure IMS connectivity with TLS encryption, Modern web and mobile access to IMS applications

How does IBM IMS Connect work?

It enables distributed applications (Java, .NET, web services, REST APIs) to access IMS transactions and data over TCP/IP without requiring SNA/VTAM connectivity. IMS Connect supports connection pooling, workload balancing across IMS systems, TLS encryption, and integration with z/OS Connect for RESTful API exposure of IMS transactions.

Technical

What platforms does IBM IMS Connect support?

IBM IMS Connect supports the following platforms: z/OS.

What are the alternatives to IBM IMS Connect?

Competing products include: GT Software Ivory, IBM z/OS Connect (complementary).

How complex is IBM IMS Connect to implement?

IBM IMS Connect has a high technical complexity level with a high learning curve. It is best suited for enterprise organizations.

Deployment & Industries

How is IBM IMS Connect deployed?

IBM IMS Connect supports the following deployment models: on-premise.

What industries use IBM IMS Connect?

IBM IMS Connect is primarily used in: Banking, Finance, Insurance, Government, Airlines.

IBM IMS Connect Modernization Guide