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IBM i

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Company health

Employee growth
5% increase in the last year
Web traffic
11% decrease in the last quarter

Ratings

G2
4.4/5
(41)

IBM i description

IBM i is a robust operating system designed for IBM Power servers, popular for its all-in-one approach to security, database management, and system administration. This integration simplifies IT management and potentially reduces costs. Renowned for its strong security features and reliability, IBM i is particularly favored by businesses with critical applications that demand continuous operation. While powerful, it might require specialized skills to manage and develop applications, but IBM provides tools and resources to support modernization efforts.


Who is IBM i best for

IBM i is a robust OS known for its integrated approach to security, database management, and system administration, simplifying IT management and potentially reducing costs. Users praise its reliability and strong security features, while some find the interface outdated and the learning curve steep. Ideal for businesses with critical applications requiring continuous operation.

  • Ideal for medium to large enterprises (101+ employees), especially those with high security and reliability needs.

  • Suitable for established businesses across various sectors, particularly finance, retail, and manufacturing.


IBM i features

Supported

IBM i integrates the database, middleware, security, runtime, and hypervisor into a single licensed solution.

Supported

IBM i offers subscription term licensing for easier budget planning with predictable payments.

Supported

IBM i provides authority collection capabilities to track object usage and enforce security policies.

Supported

IBM i's object-based architecture prevents programs from masquerading as other objects, enhancing security.

Supported

IBM i supports application modernization using industry-standard tools, reducing skills gaps.

Supported

IBM i offers autonomous features and remote management capabilities through IBM Navigator for i and IBM i Mobile Access, simplifying system administration.

Supported

IBM i supports on-premises and cloud deployments, including IBM Power Virtual Server, offering a consistent user experience across hybrid cloud.


IBM i reviews

We've summarised 41 IBM i reviews (IBM i G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.

Pros of IBM i
  • Reliable and stable platform with modern technology integration.
  • Longevity and continued relevance.
  • Strong security features, including access control and encryption.
  • Cost-effective for suitable businesses.
  • Simplified IT management and reduced costs.
Cons of IBM i
  • Outdated interface and steep learning curve.
  • Difficult to find experienced professionals.
  • Limited documentation and guides.
  • Expensive, especially for smaller businesses.
  • Outdated disaster recovery processes.

IBM i alternatives

  • Logo of IBM Power Servers
    IBM Power Servers
    Robust, reliable servers for mission-critical applications and hybrid cloud.
    Read more
  • Logo of IBM AIX
    IBM AIX
    Unix-based OS for mission-critical apps. Secure, reliable, and scalable.
    Read more
  • Logo of IBM Z
    IBM Z
    Secure, high-volume transaction processing for mission-critical reliability.
    Read more
  • Logo of Ideagen Disclose
    Ideagen Disclose
    Automated disclosure checklist software ensuring accurate financial reports.
    Read more
  • Logo of Ideagen EHS
    Ideagen EHS
    Streamlines safety, risk, and compliance management.
    Read more
  • Logo of Ideagen PleaseReview
    Ideagen PleaseReview
    Effortless proposal collaboration with version control and audit trails.
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IBM i FAQ

  • What is IBM i and what does IBM i do?

    IBM i is a powerful operating system for IBM Power servers known for its integrated design, combining database, security, and system administration into one platform. This simplifies IT management and enhances security, making it ideal for businesses with critical applications requiring high availability and robust data protection.

  • How does IBM i integrate with other tools?

    IBM i integrates with industry-standard tools, supporting application modernization and reducing skills gaps. It offers flexible deployment options, including on-premises and cloud environments like IBM Power Virtual Server, ensuring a consistent user experience across hybrid cloud. It also features remote management capabilities through IBM Navigator for i and IBM i Mobile Access.

  • What the main competitors of IBM i?

    Top IBM i competitors include Red Hat Enterprise Linux, a flexible and secure option, and IBM AIX, a Unix-based OS known for reliability and scalability. Other alternatives are Debian, Windows 11, CA IDMS, and IBM Storage Insights.

  • Is IBM i legit?

    Yes, IBM i is a legitimate and secure operating system known for its reliability and robust security features. It's a safe and stable platform suitable for businesses with critical applications requiring continuous operation. While it has a learning curve, its integrated design simplifies IT management.

  • How much does IBM i cost?

    IBM i pricing isn't publicly available. Contact IBM directly for a personalized quote based on your specific hardware and software needs. Consider factors like user licenses, software tiers, and hardware maintenance when evaluating if IBM i is worth the investment for your business.

  • Is IBM i customer service good?

    IBM i users report mixed experiences with customer service. While some praise the platform's stability and security, others mention limited community support and difficulty finding solutions. More information is needed to determine overall customer service quality.


Reviewed by

MK
Michal Kaczor
CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

TT
Tymon Terlikiewicz
CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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