TOP SECRET to RACF Mainframe Security Migration
Simplify and Strengthen Mainframe Security with IBM RACF
A Seamless Migration Approach from Broadcom’s Top Secret to IBM’s RACF
Introducing Top Secret to RACF Migration, designed to help enterprises move away from Broadcom’s Top Secret security product to IBM’s native and future-ready RACF. Ensure robust access control, seamless compliance, and optimized security operations—all without compromising user access or audit integrity. Whether it’s authentication, policy mapping, or audit trails, this migration positions your organization for long-term mainframe security success and effective RACF security implementation.
What is “TOP SECRET “?
Top Secret mainframe security is a software product developed and marketed by Broadcom Inc. (formerly CA Technologies). It’s one of the three major Security Access Control (SAC) or External Security Manager (ESM) products used on IBM z/OS mainframes, alongside IBM RACF and Broadcom ACF2.
What is “RACF”?
RACF, or Resource Access Control Facility, is IBM’s native mainframe security software that regulates access to secured resources and guarantees that only permitted users can utilize them. It’s one of the major elements of the z/OS Security Server and serves as the primary security manager. RACF offers user authentication, authorization, and logging features critical to RACF security implementation across enterprise environments.
Business challenges with “TOP SECRET”
Need for migrating to RACF
Comes with z/OS from IBM
Cost Effective than Top Secret
Maintenance overhead for Top Secreton z/OS
Resource availability
Migration Approach
Migration Strategy: Top Secret to RACF
- Assessment: Thoroughly assess the current Top Secret environment, including its policies, rules, and user access. This helps identify potential issues and ensure a smooth transition.
- Data Extraction: Extract all relevant Top Secret mainframe security definitions (ACIDs, DSNs, resource profiles) for RACF mapping. This includes users, datasets, and general resource information required for RACF security implementation.
- Data Conversion: Convert the extracted Top Secret data into equivalent RACF commands. This involves mapping Top Secret objects (users, groups, etc.) to their RACF equivalents.
- Cutover: Implement the RACF security environment, ensuring Top Secret is disabled and that RACF becomes the primary security mechanism.
- Planning: Create a detailed plan for Top Secret to RACF Migration, including steps, timelines, and required resources. Consider the impact on users and applications.
- RACF Configuration: Configure RACF classes, profiles, and access controls based on your organization's security requirements.
- Testing: Test the RACF environment fully to confirm that users have proper access and that all security rules are enforced in the way intended. This includes testing with various applications and users.
- Validation: Validate the RACF configuration and user access to ensure a successful IBM RACF migration. Conduct audits to confirm seamless functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is the process of converting CA Top Secret security rules to IBM RACF policies to unify and streamline security management.
RACF is more tightly integrated with IBM environments and offers better future-proofing for z/OS systems.
We use proven methodologies and automated tools to translate rules, ensuring role-based access and compliance remain intact.
Yes, our process includes a comprehensive validation step to ensure no security gaps exist after migration.
Yes, RACF integrates with modern MFA solutions and IAM tools, enhancing your enterprise security posture.
Let’s Talk
Migrate from Top Secret to RACF Now!
Migrate from Top Secret and secure your mainframe the IBM way.
Talk to a Mainframe Expert to discuss your Top Secret to RACF migration roadmap and ensure a compliant, secure transition.