IBM has continuously updated the system to meet modern needs, offering new features, security updates, and support for emerging technologies. The AS400, also known as IBM iSeries or IBM Power Systems, is a technology that has stood the test of time since its launch in 1988. Even though it has undergone several iterations and rebranding, the essence of the AS400 server still exists and continues to play a crucial role in many businesses worldwide. However, as we move into an era dominated by cloud technology, questions arise: Does the AS400 still have a place in modern IT infrastructure, and what does the future hold for it?
AS400’s Longevity in the Modern World
The AS400 was initially designed to be a highly reliable, scalable, and secure system. It remains a favored platform for companies that require robust systems to handle high volumes of transactions, such as in finance, manufacturing, and retail. The server’s capability to run legacy applications without any performance drop makes it a trusted platform for organizations that have built their core business processes around it.
Despite the advent of newer technologies, many businesses still rely on the AS400 because of its reliability, low total cost of ownership (TCO), and seamless integration with modern technologies. This has kept it relevant in industries where uptime and performance are non-negotiable.
The Transition to Cloud and AS400’s Adaptation
As businesses embrace cloud computing for its flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, the future of the AS400 has also evolved. IBM has been proactive in adapting the AS400 to coexist with modern technologies. The IBM Power Systems can now integrate with cloud platforms, and IBM i workloads can be managed in a hybrid environment, blending on-premises servers with cloud services.
This hybrid model allows businesses to leverage the best of both worlds – the security and reliability of AS400, combined with the scalability and agility of cloud platforms. IBM offers cloud hosting for AS400 workloads, ensuring businesses can migrate their systems to the cloud without abandoning the platform they trust.
Future of AS400 in the Cloud Era
In 2024, the AS400 (IBM i) continues to prove its relevance through modernization efforts, such as integration with cloud platforms, enhanced security, and automation features. Organizations are leveraging hybrid models, combining the stability of AS400 with the flexibility of cloud services to meet modern demands.
The future of the AS400 lies in modernization. With the introduction of IBM i in the cloud, AS400 systems are not becoming obsolete; they are evolving. Modern tools allow AS400 applications to be containerized and managed in a cloud-native environment, ensuring the platform remains a key player in business-critical operations.
The AS400 server still exists and is far from being outdated. As we move deeper into the era of cloud technology, businesses can modernize their AS400 systems and embrace the cloud without losing the platform’s stability and reliability.
