SMP/E for z/OS Workshop from Coursera

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Syllabus

SMP/E Overview

SMP/E is a tool designed to manage your z/OS operating environment. It is capable of ensuring the proper installation of products and maintenance in a complex environment, so it is no surprise that the tool itself is complex. This unit presents the basic terms and concepts associated with SMP/E to give you a foundation on which to build understanding of a product that has many closely interrelating parts. This unit assumes some knowledge of basic z/OS facilities. If you are unfamiliar with some of the z/OS terminology used here, please refer to the glossary after the Appendix B of this student guide.

SYSMOD Packaging

SMP/E SYSMODs contain both the modification text and a set of instructions that advise SMP/E exactly how the modification is to be used. These instructions, called modification control statements (MCS) contain the details of how and where the SYSMOD is to be installed. In this unit, you will examine MCS as well as the three techniques used to package SYSMODs.

Tracking element levels

One of the primary responsibilities of SMP/E is to keep track of SYSMODs that are installed on your system. SMP/E ensures that all SYSMODs affecting a given element are installed in the proper sequence. Element regression does not occur if the SYSMODs are installed in the correct order. This order is determined by the packager and is communicated to SMP/E through the modification control statements. This unit explains how SMP/E tracks the SYSMOD level of an element. Why tracking is so important and the details involved are both discussed in the APPLY processing unit.

Consolidated software inventory

The consolidated software inventory contains information necessary for all SMP/E processing. It describes how a given set of system libraries is built so SMP/E knows how to add to and modify those libraries.

Execution requirements

SMP/E can be invoked either by using the dialogs (which generate JCL) or by submitting batch jobs containing JCL. This unit examines SMP/E JCL. Specifically, we will look at the required DD statements necessary to process various commands. SMP/E also provides the ability to have the required data sets dynamically allocated when needed. The methods and advantages to dynamic allocation will also be discussed in this unit.

RECEIVE and REJECT

Tasks involved in maintaining the currentness of a system include the installation of SYSMODs. The first step in the installation is the RECEIVE process which stages SYSMODs into the SMP/E database. This unit examines the RECEIVE process. Also discussed is the REJECT command which reverses the results of RECEIVE.

APPLY processing

The APPLY command is used to install elements supplied by a SYSMOD into the target system libraries. The APPLY process selects SYSMODs in the global zone based on operands coded on the APPLY command as well as their applicability to the environment. SMP/E also ensures that all requisite SYSMODs are applied or are being applied concurrently. It invokes system utilities to install the elements into the target libraries and records the new element's level in the target zone. This unit examines each of these phases in detail as well as the various operands that can be specified on the APPLY command.

ACCEPT Processing

The ACCEPT command is used to cause SMP/E to install the elements supplied by a SYSMOD into the distribution libraries. This master copy of elements is used when SYSMODs, installed on the target system, must be RESTOREd. They also serve as a base from which your installation can perform a system generation.

RESTORE

RESTORE reinstalls the distribution library level of an element into the target library. It is a process that can be used to remove installed SYSMODs that have not been accepted.

BUILDMCS and LINK MODULE

This unit addresses the commands that relate more closely to product build activities, BUILDMCS, LINK LMODS, and LINK MODULE.

LIST and REPORT commands

Students will examine the processes of both LIST and REPORT. The LIST command is used to gather information about the entries of one or more zones. It is the batch mode equivalent of the QUERY function in the SMP/E dialogs. The REPORT command is used to obtain information about SYSMODs which have been installed on your system.

SMP/E and the network

In SMP/E V3.5, a major new function called RECEIVE ORDER allows for a completely automated SMP/E process that downloads and installs IBM preventive and corrective service over the network or Internet.This unit looks at SMP/E V3.6 which is a base component of z/OS, and which packages support for the electronic delivery of a Service over the network or Internet. In z/OS, a new type of package called an ORDER enables SMP/E to automatically order and install maintenance over the Internet.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Helps learners develop system maintenance skills and knowledge, which are core to IT and DevOps work

Offers in-depth study of SMP/E maintenance tasks involved in z/OS product installation

Taught by Martin Keen, a recognized expert in SMP/E

Builds a strong foundation in SMP/E for beginners

Hands-on labs provide practical experience with SMP/E tasks

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in SMP/E for z/OS Workshop with these activities:

Read 'z/OS SMP/E User's Guide'

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Enhance your understanding of SMP/E concepts and commands by reviewing the official user guide.

View IBM z/OS V2R2 Communications Server TCP/IP... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the 'z/OS SMP/E User's Guide'.
Read through the guide, focusing on the sections that are relevant to your current knowledge level.
Take notes and highlight important concepts and commands.

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Career center

Learners who complete SMP/E for z/OS Workshop will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Deployment Engineer

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` provides in-depth knowledge of SMP/E, a tool used for deploying and maintaining software in the z/OS operating environment. As a Software Deployment Engineer, you will be responsible for planning, executing, and managing software deployments. This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to use SMP/E to effectively deploy and maintain software in a z/OS environment, making it a valuable addition to your skillset.

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Senior Systems Engineer

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` is specifically designed to provide the skills needed in the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment, which makes it highly relevant to the role of a Senior Systems Engineer. This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to use SMP/E to effectively manage and maintain z/OS systems, a valuable skill set for any Senior Systems Engineer working in a z/OS environment.

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Systems Administrator

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. As a Systems Administrator, you will be responsible for managing and maintaining the day-to-day operations of your organization's IT systems. This course can help you build a strong foundation in SMP/E, a valuable tool for managing z/OS systems. Additionally, the course covers topics such as modification control statements, the consolidated software inventory, and error analysis, which are essential for successful systems administration.

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Configuration Management Analyst

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` provides foundational knowledge in SMP/E software, which is used in the installation and maintenance of optional features in the z/OS operating environment. As a Configuration Management Analyst, you will be responsible for managing the software and hardware configurations of your organization's IT systems. This course can help you build a foundation in SMP/E, a tool that is widely used in the industry for managing z/OS systems.

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IT Project Manager

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. As an IT Project Manager, you will be responsible for planning, executing, and managing IT projects. This course can help you build a strong foundation in SMP/E, a valuable tool for managing z/OS-based projects. Additionally, the course covers topics such as project planning, risk management, and change management, which are essential for successful IT project management.

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Data Center Manager

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for Data Center Managers who are responsible for managing and maintaining the day-to-day operations of their organization's data center. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, Data Center Managers can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained in their data center, enabling them to make informed decisions and optimize their operations.

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Network Administrator

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for Network Administrators who are responsible for managing and maintaining their organization's computer networks. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, Network Administrators can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained on their networks, enabling them to troubleshoot and resolve network issues more effectively.

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IT Security Analyst

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for IT Security Analysts who are responsible for protecting their organization's IT systems from security threats. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, IT Security Analysts can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained on their systems, enabling them to identify and mitigate potential security vulnerabilities.

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Database Administrator

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for Database Administrators who are responsible for managing and maintaining their organization's databases. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, Database Administrators can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained on their databases, enabling them to optimize performance and troubleshoot issues more effectively.

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Software Developer

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for Software Developers who are responsible for developing and maintaining software applications. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, Software Developers can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained on their systems, enabling them to develop and maintain applications that are more reliable and efficient.

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Technical Support Engineer

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for Technical Support Engineers who are responsible for providing technical support to their organization's users. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, Technical Support Engineers can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained on their systems, enabling them to provide more effective support to their users.

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IT Consultant

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for IT Consultants who are responsible for providing consulting services to their clients. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, IT Consultants can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained in their clients' environments, enabling them to provide more valuable consulting services.

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IT Auditor

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for IT Auditors who are responsible for auditing their organization's IT systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, IT Auditors can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained on their systems, enabling them to conduct more effective audits.

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Information Security Manager

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for Information Security Managers who are responsible for managing their organization's information security program. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, Information Security Managers can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained on their systems, enabling them to develop and implement more effective information security policies and procedures.

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Business Analyst

The course `SMP/E for z/OS Workshop` may be useful for Business Analysts who are responsible for analyzing and improving their organization's business processes. This course provides a comprehensive overview of SMP/E, a software tool used for the installation and maintenance of optional features and maintenance in the z/OS operating environment. By understanding SMP/E, Business Analysts can gain insights into how software is deployed and maintained in their organization, enabling them to identify and recommend improvements to business processes.

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