Secure and fast server network connectivity
IBM Z mainframes provide server networking with true processing power. Innovation in hardware and TCP/IP networking, such as on the new IBM z15™, reinforce the value of IBM Z to deliver:
- Agility to easily share across partitions.
- Security to improve trusted connectivity.
- Resiliency to deliver continuous availability.
- Scalability to maintain high performance.
What we offer
Communications networks
Internal LAN connectivity
Eliminate physical cabling with multiple options to communicate between virtual servers on a single IBM mainframe. Learn about the internal LAN connectivity capabilities.
External LAN connectivity
Gain strong, fast connections across a physical LAN for both IP-based and non-IP-based workloads. See how these adapters can be combined to provide high-speed TCP/IP communications.
Console controller
Discover the cost and resource savings of secure, integrated console controller functionality. Utilize System Operator/Master consoles and standard tn3270e consoles for z/OS®, z/VM® and z/VSE®.
Storage networks
FICON
Apply resilient, high-performance channels for critical workloads. FICON provides connection to Count-Key-Data (CKD) and Extended Count Key Data (ECKD) devices over Fibre Channel links.
FCP channels
Consolidate UNIX server farms by attaching to industry-standard SCSI storage controllers and devices with high-performance, virtualized connections for z/VM, z/VSE, and Linux on Z workloads.
zHyperLink
Help accelerate z/OS DB2 database transactions and leverage short distance, point-to-point PCI-e links with this low-latency connectivity to FICON storage systems.
Coupling connectivity
Internal coupling
Gain high-speed, efficient communication between a CF partition and one or more z/OS logical partitions that are running on the same CPC.
Short distance coupling
Connect Coupling Facilities within 150 meters of distance, using standard PCI-e interfaces for high-speed differential communication.
Long distance coupling
Drive distances up to 10km with unrepeated RoCE technology, unrepeated and up to 100km thanks to IBM Z qualified Dense Wavelength Multiplexers (DWDM).
Resources
I/O connectivity handbook
See the connectivity options available for use in IBM Z servers.
DWDM qualification
View the IBM Z Qualified WDM products for Multi-site Sysplex and GDPS® solutions.
FICON 101 webinar
Learn the basics of FICON in this Fibre Channel Industry Association webcast.
FICON qualification
View the switches and directors qualified for IBM Z FICON and FCP channels.
FICON performance
Read the whitepaper outlining performance of FICON Express16S+ on z14.