Passwords Aren’t Enough to Modernize Mainframe Security
Security is the backbone of any organization’s control environment. In today’s hyper-connected economy, protecting against IT threats is not just a technical requirement—it’s a business imperative. A single breach can lead to financial loss, exposure of confidential data, theft of intellectual property, service disruption, and reputational damage.
The Mainframe: Trusted, But Often Misunderstood
Mainframe systems continue to power the digital experiences of the world’s largest enterprises. They are trusted, resilient, and secure by design. Yet, despite their robust architecture, one of the most common vulnerabilities remains surprisingly simple: passwords.
When I speak with customers, they’re often surprised to learn that the mainframe has been around for over 60 years. They also frequently don’t know that RACF (Resource Access Control Facility), IBM’s mainframe security solution, will turn 50 in 2026. Instead of admiration, I often hear that RACF is “inflexible” and “limited to 8-character passwords.”
“I often hear that RACF is “inflexible” and “limited to 8-character passwords. But that’s a misconception”
But that’s a misconception.
RACF: More Capable Than You Think
RACF has supported password phrases (passphrases) ranging from 9 to 100 characters for nearly two decades. It has also allowed mixed-case passwords and approximately 20 special characters for over 10 years. These enhancements provide significantly stronger password options than many realize.
In 2016, IBM introduced multi-factor authentication (MFA) for z/OS, later extending it to z/VM. This marked a major step forward in securing mainframe environments against modern threats.
However, organizations must use MFA to benefit from it. According to the 2025 Arcati Mainframe User Survey, only about 50% of businesses employ MFA. That means another 50% aren’t taking advantage of a ready-made mainframe protection tool.
Why MFA Matters
MFA adds a critical layer of protection beyond passwords. It’s based on three factors:
- Something you know – like a password or passphrase
- Something you have – such as a phone, token, or ID badge
- Something you are – biometric data like a fingerprint or facial recognition
Even if one factor is compromised, the others act as barriers, making unauthorized access significantly more difficult.
The Bottom Line: Strengthening Mainframe Security
Security threats are evolving, and so must our defenses. The mainframe is not outdated; it’s a modern, secure platform that continues to adapt. By leveraging RACF’s advanced capabilities and implementing MFA, organizations can strengthen their security posture and protect their most critical assets.
It’s time to move beyond outdated perceptions and embrace the full potential of mainframe security.
0 Comments