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This is a specicially curated glossary designed to help beginners understand key mainframe terms through simple explanations and relatable analogies.
| Term | Explanation | Think of it like... |
|---|---|---|
| z/OS | Operating system for IBM mainframes | Windows/MacOS |
| DB2 (Database 2) | Database management system for storing structured data | SQL/ Excel |
| CICS (Customer Information Control System) | Processes online transactions for users and applications | Web Server |
| JCL (Job Control Language) | Script language which tells z/OS which jobs to run | Workflow/ Batch script |
| 3270 Terminal | Text-based interface used to access the mainframe | Command Prompt/ Terminal |
| z16/ z17 | Latest generations of IBM mainframes with AI and high security | Server/ Mainframe System |
| SMF Logs (System Management Facility) | System logs recording events and performance data | Flight recorder/ Analytics |
| RACF (Resource Access Control Facility) | Security system that manages user access and permissions | Login manager/ Admin controls |
| REXX (Restructured Extended Executor) | Simple scripting language for automation on z/OS | Python/ PowerShell |
| Sysplex (System Complex) | Multiple mainframes linked to share workloads | Server cluster |
| COBOL (Common Business Oriented Language) | Programming language for business and financial systems | Pseudocode - but it actually works |
| IPL (Initial Program Load) | Starts up the mainframe and loads z/OS | Booting a computer |