Ascert z/OS z/VM zVSE/VSEn

VersaTest VTERM Modernization Guide

3270Testing

VersaTest VTERM is a 3270 product by Ascert. Explore technical details, modernization strategies, and migration paths below.

Product Overview

VersaTest VTERM allows testing of 3270 applications, using commands such as `CONNECT :` to establish connections and `SEND ` to send data.

The product exposes a REST API with endpoints like `/api/v1/sessions` for managing sessions.

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 VersaTest VTERM and what does it do?

VersaTest VTERM is designed to extend testing capabilities to 3270 applications, allowing users to perform automated testing, data validation, and performance monitoring of mainframe applications through a standard interface. It supports scripting and integration with other testing tools.

What protocols does VersaTest VTERM use for communication?

VersaTest VTERM supports multiple 3270 emulation protocols, including TN3270 and TN3270E. It also supports SSL/TLS for secure communication with mainframe systems. The communication relies on standard TCP/IP connections.

How are test cases defined and executed in VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM uses a scripting language for defining test cases. Scripts can include commands to interact with the 3270 application, such as 'SEND', 'RECEIVE', and 'WAIT'. Data validation is performed using regular expressions and data masks.

How does VersaTest VTERM integrate with other testing tools?

VersaTest VTERM integrates with other testing tools through its API, which supports REST and SOAP protocols. It also provides a command-line interface (CLI) for automation and integration with CI/CD pipelines.

Technical

What are the most common commands in VersaTest VTERM?

Common commands include 'CONNECT :' to establish a connection, 'SEND ' to send data to the 3270 screen, 'RECEIVE ' to wait for a specific pattern, 'DISCONNECT' to close the connection, and 'VERIFY ' to validate received data.

What types of APIs does VersaTest VTERM expose?

VersaTest VTERM exposes a REST API for programmatic access. Example endpoint patterns include '/api/v1/sessions' for managing sessions, '/api/v1/scripts' for managing scripts, and '/api/v1/results' for retrieving test results. It supports JSON format for data exchange.

What are the main system components of VersaTest VTERM?

The main system components include the 'Test Engine' for executing tests, the 'Communication Handler' for managing 3270 connections, the 'Script Interpreter' for parsing and executing test scripts, and the 'Reporting Module' for generating test reports.

What configuration files are used by VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM uses configuration files in YAML format to store settings such as connection parameters, script locations, and reporting options. These files are typically located in the '/opt/verstatest/config' directory.

Business Value

What is the business value of using VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM enables organizations to automate testing of 3270 applications, reducing manual effort and improving test coverage. This leads to faster release cycles and higher quality mainframe applications.

How does VersaTest VTERM help reduce business risk?

By automating 3270 testing, VersaTest VTERM reduces the risk of defects in mainframe applications, which can lead to costly outages and business disruptions. It also helps ensure compliance with industry regulations.

How does VersaTest VTERM improve the testing process?

VersaTest VTERM provides detailed test reports and analytics, allowing organizations to track testing progress, identify bottlenecks, and improve the overall testing process. This leads to better resource allocation and cost savings.

Security

What authentication methods are supported by VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM supports authentication methods such as LDAP, SAML 2.0, and X.509 certificates. It also supports multi-factor authentication (MFA) for enhanced security.

What access control model is used by VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM uses a role-based access control (RBAC) model to manage user permissions. Users are assigned roles, and each role has specific permissions to access resources and perform actions.

What encryption is used by VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM uses TLS 1.2 encryption for secure communication between the client and the server. It also supports encryption of sensitive data at rest using AES-256 encryption.

What audit/logging capabilities exist in VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM provides audit logging capabilities to track user activity and system events. Logs are stored in a secure location and can be used for security analysis and compliance reporting.

Operations

What administrative interfaces are available in VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM provides a web-based administrative interface for managing users, configuring settings, and monitoring system performance. It also provides a command-line interface (CLI) for automation and scripting.

How is user management handled in VersaTest VTERM?

User management is handled through the administrative interface, where administrators can create, modify, and delete user accounts. Users can be assigned roles and permissions based on their job function.

What monitoring/logging capabilities exist in VersaTest VTERM?

VersaTest VTERM provides monitoring and logging capabilities to track system performance and identify potential issues. Logs are stored in a central location and can be analyzed using standard log analysis tools.

What are the main configuration parameters in VersaTest VTERM?

The main configuration parameters include connection settings, script locations, reporting options, and security settings. These parameters can be configured through the administrative interface or by editing the configuration files.

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