Is Your IBM i Stuck in the Past?

Introduction

For decades, IBM i (AS/400) operators have been the backbone of their organisations, ensuring mission-critical systems run smoothly. Many have extensive experience, deep technical knowledge, and a long history with the platform.

However, IBM i is often treated differently from other enterprise systems when it comes to updates, security patches, and modern best practices. Unlike Microsoft and Linux environments, where regular patching is the norm, many IBM i environments are still operating with outdated security postures. The result? Unpatched vulnerabilities, excessive access permissions, and growing cyber risks that could put businesses in jeopardy.

This isn’t about operator negligence or a lack of dedication — it’s about evolving security expectations that many IBM i environments have yet to catch up with.

The Dangerous Reality of IBM i Neglect

IBM i is known for its legendary stability, but that reliability has led some organisations to adopt a “set it and forget it” mentality. This outdated approach can lead to serious security risks.

1. Ignoring Microcode & Security Updates

IBM regularly releases microcode and operating system updates that improve system reliability and security. These updates:

• Fix known vulnerabilities
• Reduce hardware faults
• Enhance system stability

Despite this, we’ve seen customers who are 60 levels behind on updates, running production workloads on outdated IBM Power Systems and storage arrays. Every missing update is a potential security vulnerability, leaving businesses exposed to cyber threats, system failures, and compliance risks.

2. Excessive Privileges Given to Third Parties

Another common issue is unrestricted access granted to external vendors, software providers, and even internal developers. While collaboration is important, excessive privileges create unnecessary security risks. Best practices dictate that:

• Only a small, approved team should have full system access
• Vendors and developers should have the least privileges required for their tasks
• Access permissions should be regularly reviewed and updated

Failing to manage access properly can lead to accidental changes, unauthorised activity, and even insider threats—whether intentional or not.

3. Why Security is Overlooked

When speaking with IBM i teams about security, we often hear the same explanations:

• “I didn’t know I needed to apply that update.”
• “We don’t have a patching policy like we do for Windows and Linux.”
• “Our system has been running fine for years.”
• “I don’t have time to test and apply updates.”
• “Outsourcing security was supposed to handle this, but they didn’t.”

These aren’t excuses—they’re symptoms of a wider problem: IBM i environments aren’t always managed with the same urgency as other platforms. But security threats have evolved, and IBM i systems are now a major target for cybercriminals.

The Solution: A Security & Vulnerability Audit from BabyBlue

At BabyBlue IT & Consulting, we specialise in IBM i security and infrastructure. In our experience, every IBM i environment we’ve reviewed has had security gaps—some critical. Even businesses with strong IT teams often miss vulnerabilities simply because they aren’t visible in day-to-day operations.

Our Two-Day Security Audit Includes:

✅ A full security and vulnerability review of your IBM Power System
✅ A detailed risk assessment and report
✅ Actionable recommendations to strengthen your security posture

If your IBM i systems haven’t been reviewed recently, there’s a good chance they have multiple vulnerabilities. A proactive approach to patching, access control, and system security can help prevent costly downtime, compliance violations, and security breaches.

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

Don’t let outdated habits put your business at risk. Book a two-day security audit with BabyBlue today and ensure your IBM i environment is secure, stable, and future-proof.

👉Contact Us Now