Security is the ability to protect data processing resources from unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction. DFSMSdfp supports several methods of controlling access to sensitive data.

Resource Access Control Facility (RACF®)

RACF, a component of the z/OS® Security Server, protects the system by giving access to those individuals who have authority to use the resource. You can use RACF to protect data sets, authorize access to ISMF functions, and authorize use of DFSMShsm, DFSMSdss, and DFSMSrmm commands.

Authorized Program Facility (APF)

APF is a facility that permits the identification of programs that are authorized to use restricted functions.

Integrated Cryptographic Service Facility (ICSF)

ICSF provides access to the hardware cryptographic feature for programming applications. The combination of the hardware cryptographic feature and ICSF provides secure high-speed cryptographic services.

Related reading:

• For more information on RACF, see z/OS Security Server RACF Security Administrator's Guide.

• For more information on APF, see z/OS MVS Programming: Authorized Assembler Services Guide.
• For more information on ICSF, see z/OS Cryptographic Services ICSF Overview.