IBM Storage Protect (Formerly IBM Spectrum Protect) version 8.1.24 introduces several improvements that help to enhance performance, security, and operational resilience. In this blog, we highlight the five most important updates in this release and explain how they contribute to strengthening your data protection strategy.
1. Maintenance and APAR Fixes
The 8.1.24 update includes a range of APAR (Authorized Program Analysis Reports) fixes that improve overall system stability and reliability. These fixes address previously reported issues and ensure that your IBM Storage Protect environment operates smoothly with fewer interruptions. Staying up-to-date with these patches is vital for maintaining the health of your data protection infrastructure.
2. Security Enhancements
One of the standout features of version 8.1.24 is its enhanced security settings. These updates reinforce stricter security protocols, particularly when managing SSL certificates and password encryption. Administrators are required to follow stricter guidelines during installation and upgrades to ensure that security vulnerabilities are minimised. This level of security is crucial for businesses handling sensitive data and aiming to prevent cyberattacks or breaches.
3. RHEL 9 Compatibility
This release introduces support for Red Hat Enterprise Linux 9 (RHEL 9), but with some notable changes. It’s important to note that OpenSSL 1.1, which is mandatory for IBM DB2 to function properly, has been deprecated in RHEL 9. To maintain compatibility, users upgrading from RHEL 8 to RHEL 9 must install the “compat-openssl11” package immediately. Without this, IBM Storage Protect’s internal DB2 database will not function as expected, which could result in system downtime or performance issues.
4. Compatibility and System Updates
Version 8.1.24 also introduces several system compatibility updates. For example, IBM AIX 7.1 is no longer supported in this version, and system administrators should review the latest requirements for Linux and Windows operating systems to ensure a smooth upgrade. This focus on compatibility ensures that your storage environment is up-to-date and optimised for the latest software and hardware configurations.
5. Simplified Installation and Upgrades
IBM has streamlined the installation and upgrade processes in this release. The updated procedures help administrators avoid common pitfalls, particularly when upgrading from earlier versions like 7.x or 6.x. The simplified process reduces the risk of errors during installation, ensuring that your system remains operational and that upgrades don’t cause unnecessary downtime.
In Summary
The IBM Spectrum Protect 8.1.24 update enhances system security, introduces RHEL 9 compatibility, and streamlines installation processes. These updates are crucial for businesses looking to strengthen their data protection infrastructure and maintain cyber resilience.
At Silverstring, we’re experts in managing and upgrading IBM Storage Protect environments. If you’re ready to take advantage of the latest enhancements in version 8.1.24, reach out to us today for assistance with your upgrade.
