IBM will consolidate some 3,900 computer servers onto about 30 System z mainframes running the Linux operating system. The company expects the new setup to use about 80 percent less energy than the current arrangement. The switch is part of Project Big Green, a commitment by IBM to sharply reduce data center energy consumption for the company and its clients.
"The mainframe is the single most powerful instrument to drive better economics and energy conservation at the data center today," said James Stallings, general manager, IBM System z mainframe. "By moving globally onto the mainframe platform, IBM is creating a technology platform that saves energy while positioning our IT assets for flexibility and growth."
"As one of the world's largest technology providers, IBM consistently assesses how our systems can be maximized to support our employees and clients," said Mark Hennessy, vice president and chief information officer, IBM.
With more than 8 million square feet of data center space (equivalent to 139 football fields), IBM runs the world's largest and most sophisticated data center operation. The company plans to recycle the 3,900 servers through IBM Global Asset Recovery Services.
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IBM's Project Big Green Spurs Global Shift to Linux on Mainframe (press release)