May 1, 2024
Updated July 7, 2025
13 minute read
IBM Z is a family of high-performance mainframe computers manufactured by IBM. Z is the latest in a line of IBM mainframe computers that have been in use since the 1960s. IBM Z is designed for large-scale enterprise applications that require high levels of performance, reliability, and security. Common applications include transaction processing, data warehousing, and business intelligence. IBM Z is also used in a variety of other applications, such as cloud computing, virtualization, and mobile computing.
Why Learn IBM Z?
There are many reasons to learn IBM Z. First, IBM Z is a powerful and versatile platform that can be used for a wide variety of applications. Second, IBM Z is a reliable and secure platform that can help businesses protect their data and applications. Third, IBM Z is a scalable platform that can be used to support growing businesses. Finally, IBM Z is a cost-effective platform that can help businesses save money on their IT infrastructure.
Benefits of Learning IBM Z
hpk766|
Find a path to becoming a IBM Z. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/hpk766/ibm
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
IBM Z.
This IBM Redbooks publication is specifically designed for students and professionals new to the mainframe environment. It provides a foundational understanding of z/OS, including its basic facilities, hardware concepts, and interactive interfaces like TSO/E and ISPF. is highly recommended as a starting point for anyone looking to gain a broad understanding of IBM Z and is often used as a textbook in academic settings.
Mastering Job Control Language (JCL) is fundamental for working with IBM mainframes. provides a practical approach to learning JCL statements and coding techniques for z/OS. It focuses on everyday jobs and helps programmers quickly learn to code significant job streams, making it a must-read for mainframe developers and system administrators.
Widely recognized resource for learning COBOL programming specifically in the IBM mainframe environment. It covers structured programming techniques, working with data, and interacting with key IBM products like VSAM, CICS, and DB2. It is often used as a textbook and is highly relevant for anyone focusing on mainframe application development.
CICS crucial online transaction processing system on IBM Z. teaches COBOL programmers how to develop interactive applications using CICS. It covers essential CICS concepts and programming techniques, making it highly relevant for those involved in mainframe application development and modernization.
Building upon Part 1, this book delves into more advanced topics of using DB2 with COBOL programs. It's suitable for programmers who need to deepen their understanding of database interactions on the mainframe.
Offers a beginner-friendly introduction to IBM System z mainframes and z/OS, avoiding excessive technical jargon. It helps readers quickly grasp what mainframes are, their functions, and essential terminology. It also provides insights into the mainframe community and current trends, making it a useful resource for those seeking a high-level overview before diving into technical details.
This handbook serves as a single-point reference for mainframe professionals, covering a broad range of topics including mainframe basics, JCL, VSAM, REXX, and CICS. It provides in-depth knowledge about the mainframe programming environment and popular IBM products, making it a useful reference for both gaining a broad understanding and deepening knowledge.
This handbook focuses on the various connectivity options available for IBM Z mainframes within and beyond the data center. Understanding connectivity is crucial in modern hybrid environments. is relevant for system administrators and architects dealing with integrating IBM Z with other systems and networks.
Explores the integration of mainframe z environments with distributed platforms. It is relevant for understanding contemporary topics like hybrid cloud environments involving IBM Z and application modernization strategies that bridge mainframes and other platforms.
This is the definitive reference manual for the z/Architecture instruction set. While not a tutorial, it is an essential resource for anyone doing low-level programming or in-depth systems analysis on IBM Z. It provides detailed descriptions of all instructions and architectural features.
Offers a concise description of Assembler programming for IBM's z/Architecture, specifically aimed at application programmers. It serves as a compact reference for understanding the instruction set relevant to application development on IBM Z.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/hpk766/ibm
Save
