IBM z/OS Connect | IBM | Mainframe Modernization Platform

Product Overview

IBM z/OS Connect by IBM is a API Management + Integration + Modernization solution for mainframe environments.

Key use cases include: Exposing CICS/IMS transactions as REST APIs, Bidirectional z/OS to cloud service integration, API lifecycle management for mainframe services, OpenAPI spec generation from COBOL copybooks.

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 z/OS Connect?

IBM z/OS Connect enables z/OS services (CICS, IMS, MQ, Db2, batch) to be exposed as RESTful JSON APIs consumable by cloud-native applications, mobile apps, and microservices.

Who makes IBM z/OS Connect?

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

What are the main use cases for IBM z/OS Connect?

Exposing CICS/IMS transactions as REST APIs, Bidirectional z/OS to cloud service integration, API lifecycle management for mainframe services, OpenAPI spec generation from COBOL copybooks

How does IBM z/OS Connect work?

Provides a no-code/low-code API definition experience and enterprise-grade API management integrated with IBM API Connect. Enables bidirectional connectivity: calling z/OS services from cloud apps and calling cloud services from z/OS programs.

Technical

What platforms does IBM z/OS Connect support?

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

What are the alternatives to IBM z/OS Connect?

Competing products include: Axway API Management, MuleSoft Anypoint Platform, Broadcom Layer7 API Gateway, CA APIM for z/OS.

How complex is IBM z/OS Connect to implement?

IBM z/OS Connect has a medium technical complexity level with a moderate learning curve. It is best suited for mid-market|enterprise organizations.

Deployment & Industries

How is IBM z/OS Connect deployed?

IBM z/OS Connect supports the following deployment models: on-premise, hybrid.

What industries use IBM z/OS Connect?

IBM z/OS Connect is primarily used in: Banking, Finance, Insurance, Healthcare, Government.

IBM z/OS Connect Modernization Guide