System data set backup copies

Database data sets and message queue data sets are not the only data sets for which backup copies should be made. You should also make backup copies of the IMS system data sets. These include the ACB library (IMS.ACBLIBx) and the MFS library (IMS.FORMATx).

IMS does not provide any special utilities or commands to make backup copies of system data sets. You can, however, make periodic backup copies using z/OS® utilities, such as IEBCOPY. You can make these copies at the same time you make periodic backup copies of z/OS system libraries. You may also find it convenient to back up the system data sets and databases at the same time.

When you make online changes, you should make backup copies of the active data sets after you switch the inactive and active data sets.

You should also periodically back up RECON data sets using the BACKUP.RECON command.