The purpose of this blog is highlight IBM’s V7.6 Announcement with multi-factor authentication (MFA) for IBM i.
Disclaimer: IBM i is an operating system. iSeries and AS400 are servers. I use these terms interchangeably to make it easy for folks to find this information on the web.
IBM i 7.6 Introduced with Integrated MFA and Strategic Upgrade Incentives
IBM introduced IBM i version 7.6 on April 8, 2025—the latest operating system release following version 7.5. Designed to run on Power10 servers and future hardware (such as the expected Power11 and Power12), IBM i 7.6 is not compatible with older systems like Power8 or Power9. As a result, it provides a compelling incentive for organizations to upgrade to the latest IBM technology.
One of the standout features of IBM i 7.6 is the inclusion of multi-factor authentication (MFA) directly in the operating system. By building MFA into the core OS, IBM makes it significantly easier for organizations to adopt enhanced security measures—representing a major security improvement at no additional cost to IBM i customers.
Unlike many third-party solutions, IBM’s MFA implementation does not require the installation of agents, network connectivity, or external passcode services. This makes it simpler to configure and use while maintaining robust protection.
MFA has become an industry-standard requirement for securing access to applications and sensitive data. Beyond its use in banking, we regularly encounter MFA in online shopping and cloud-based applications. Now, IBM brings that same security standard to the enterprise-level IBM i environment.
IBM has designed the new MFA capability to be easy to implement, flexible, and adaptable across various use cases. The development effort spanned more than four years and required fundamental changes throughout the IBM i operating system—one reason why this feature is only available in version 7.6 and will not be backported to earlier versions via PTF (Program Temporary Fix).
To date, independent software vendors offering MFA for IBM i have priced their solutions at over $10,000. With MFA now built into the OS at no extra cost, the value proposition is clear.
Why This Announcement Matters:
- Customer demand met – IBM i users have been asking for built-in MFA for years. Now it’s here—fully integrated and ready to use.
- Official IBM support – This is a native, IBM-supported feature, a critical assurance for many enterprise customers.
- Included in the stack – MFA is part of the IBM i OS at no additional cost. From a value standpoint, it’s like receiving a $10,000–$20,000 discount on a new Power10 system with a software subscription.
It’s also worth noting that IBM has raised Power10 prices four times over the past year. With the software subscription model becoming the standard after May 8, 2024, the inclusion of MFA in IBM i 7.6 offers a tangible benefit that helps justify the new pricing for users committed to the IBM i platform.
To learn more, check out Alex Woodie’s IT Jungle article:
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