Differences Between Genuine IBM Maintenance & Third-Party Maintenance for IBM Power Systems & Storage

16 January 2025

Differences Between Genuine IBM Maintenance & Third-Party Maintenance for IBM Power Systems & Storage

When it comes to maintaining your IBM Power Systems, including IBM iSeries, pSeries, IBM i, and AIX operating systems, choosing the right support can make all the difference. Let's explore the key differences between genuine IBM maintenance and third-party maintenance, so you can make an informed decision.

Genuine IBM Maintenance

1. Expertise and Knowledge

  • IBM-certified engineers possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in IBM Power Systems. They are equipped with the latest training and updates, ensuring your systems receive top-notch care.

2. Access to Proprietary Tools

  • IBM maintenance offers access to proprietary diagnostic tools and updates, which are critical for maintaining optimal system performance and security.

3. Timely Updates and Patches

  • With genuine IBM maintenance, you receive timely updates and patches directly from the source, minimising vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance with the latest standards.

4. Comprehensive Coverage

  • IBM's maintenance plans cover a wide range of services, including hardware replacements, firmware updates, and 24/7 support, providing peace of mind and reliability.

Third-Party Maintenance

1. Cost Savings

  • Third-party maintenance providers often offer lower prices compared to genuine IBM maintenance. While cost savings are attractive, it’s essential to weigh this against potential risks.

2. Variable Quality

  • The quality of support from third-party maintainers can vary significantly. Some may lack the specialised knowledge and access to proprietary tools that IBM-certified engineers possess.

3. Limited Access to Updates

  • Third-party maintainers cannot legally distribute updates and patches, resulting in customers losing legal access without genuine IBM support. This leaves systems highly vulnerable to security risks and compliance issues, particularly for financial services or regulated businesses. Additionally, it invalidates most business cyber insurance cover.

4. Potential Compatibility Issues

  • Using third-party maintenance could lead to compatibility issues, especially if proprietary tools and updates are required for optimal performance.

5. End of IBM Service

  • Once IBM ends support and no longer provides maintenance, third-party maintenance providers become the sole option for businesses that, for various reasons, may be unable to upgrade to newer technology. The exceptional quality of IBM technology means these older systems can remain reliable for up to 20 years, with TPM providers exclusively stepping in to provide support during the latter 10 years.

Conclusion:

For companies currently using third-party maintainers, there's good news! Baby Blue offer highly competitive priced hybrid solutions with IBM for supported products and TPM cover for end of service life. By switching to genuine IBM maintenance through Baby Blue, you can benefit from:

  • Direct Access to IBM’s Expertise: Ensure your systems are maintained by the very best in the business.
  • Security, Compliance, and Cyber Insurance: Stay protected with the latest updates and patches.
  • Reliability and Peace of Mind: Enjoy comprehensive coverage and support you can trust.

Ensure the quality and reliability of your IBM Power Systems with Baby Blue & transition back to genuine IBM maintenance on supported products for compliance, and TPM cover for end-of-life technology, and accessing the best all-round pricing—all under a single, streamlined managed contract.

Next Article - IBM Power System Compliance Time Bomb 💣

https://babyblueitconsulting.com/blog/are-your-ibm-power-systems-a-compliance-time-bomb

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