If your business uses IBM i to run its daily processes, security must always be at the forefront of your mind. As security systems are developed, so are more sophisticated means of breaching those systems. With that in mind, many companies are turning to multi-layer security tools that protect their data, and by extension, their operations. Below is a list of 8 must-have security tools to improve your IBM security system.

Multi-Factor Authentication: Multi-Factor Authentication or MFA is a key element of many business security packages, and IBM security systems are no different. Look for MFA tools that require user validation keys across IBM’s many channels. These include: sign on pages, FTP servers, REXEC, FTP clients, file servers, DDM/DRDA, ODBC, and more. If your company already uses an authenticator on an outside server, a dedicated IBM server MFA tool can be integrated with your existing tech to add even more protection.

Data Encryption: Data that is stored, archived, or transferred should be done with a high level of encryption for maximum security. This not only ensures that sensitive information is protected, it also ensures that only certain departments and clearance levels are able to few it. Data encryption tools are usually packaged with data compression features that make large files, objects and reports easier to save, store, and transfer. Be sure the tool you choose has encryption features that meet your business’s security needs.

Access Management: Access management is a key factor when considering IBM security tools. Who can and cannot access certain files, data, reports, and servers not only keeps your systems organized, but it also reduces the risk of human error and data breaches. Access management tools should allow you to grant or refuse access individually or by clearance level, as well as allowing for emergency access by certain members of staff. Some of the more sophisticated tools can even grant access to certain IP addresses and be scheduled to grant access at certain times or for a certain duration. This type of automation can save you time in the long run and make access easy and secure for the people who need it.

File Editing Protection: Who is allowed to access and alter programs, files, and reports may already be set up by your access management tools, however other programs may also attempt to access and change files to make them comply with system processes or program updates. File editing protection tools allow you to make a list of programs that can and cannot access certain data and make changes or can prompt you to when a program attempts to access a file.

Intrusion Detection and Protection: Don’t wait until after your system has been breached to clean up the mess. Intrusion protection tools can be used to audit your system and find weak points that could be used by intruders. If a breach is attempted, whether from an outside source or internally, these tools can automatically send alerts and reports to the necessary people. What’s more, these tools will keep track of any critical changes to high-level or critical business data or access. Staying informed can prevent catastrophic losses down the line.

Anti-Virus and Anti-Ransomware: It is unreasonable to expect one security system to provide all the IBM monitoring you require when it comes to the safety and security of your hardware and software systems. That’s why additional anti-virus and anti-ransomware tools are crucial for reducing the chances of a cybersecurity breach. Because IBM operating systems are integrated with your company’s network, the risk of spreading or sharing a virus or ransomware file are high. Today’s best anti-virus and anti-ransomware tools can spot potential or active threats in real time and react before any damage can be done.

Security Management and Compliance: Depending on your industry, there may be one or more government security policies that you must comply with. Look for tools that will keep you compliant with the latest policies whether for PCI, SOX, HIPAA, or something else. These tools will even audit your current security policies and uncover if there are any areas that need to be improved upon to meet security standards. This type of IBM monitoring can be scheduled to happen automatically, with reports being delivered to you as often as you need.

While not every company needs every form of security available for IBM i, a suite of programs and plugins can keep your sensitive data and your operations safe from unseen threats. By outsourcing your IBM monitoring to one or more IBM security tools, you can have peace of mind and focus your time and energy on other aspects of running your business.