IBM i RESOURCES
What Are IBM HWMA, SWMA, and ALF?
What Is An IBM Hardware Maintenance Agreement (HWMA)?
An HWMA is an agreement between you and IBM to provide 24/7 hardware support for your server, covering both parts and labor. Response times can vary depending on the incident, but typically, IBM dispatch will contact you with an estimated time of arrival for an IBM Customer Engineer (CE). In most cases, the CE will have the necessary parts to complete repairs during the first visit.
In certain scenarios, if you have Electronic Customer Support (ECS), IBM can monitor your system remotely and anticipate hardware failures. When this happens, the CE may arrive and resolve the issue before you even experience downtime.
Why Is HWMA a Good Value?
Without a maintenance contract, the cost of fixing a hardware issue on a time-and-material basis often exceeds the cost of a 2–3 year HWMA. This makes HWMA an attractive option for organizations looking to minimize unpredictable expenses.
What Is An IBM Software Maintenance Agreement (SWMA)?
An SWMA is an agreement that provides ongoing support for IBM Licensed Program Products (LPPs), including:
- IBM i Operating System
- WebSphere Development Studio (RPG, COBOL, JAVA, etc.)
- IBM i Access Client Solution (aka ACS, formerly Client Access)
- IBM Db2 SQL
- Query/400
The SWMA combines two critical services:
- Software Subscriptions: Grants access to IBM i OS version upgrades, PTF (Program Temporary Fix) enhancements and software security fixes.
- Support Line: Provides direct access to IBM Rochester for technical phone support.
Why Would I Need A SWMA?
- To ensure your IBM-licensed software remains current and supported.
- To have prompt access to IBM experts for resolving software-related issues.
Why Keep IBM Software Current?
- Application Compatibility: Most IBM i software vendors only support their applications on IBM-supported software versions. Without current software, you may lose access to updates or bug fixes from your vendor.
- Hardware Integration: Newer devices (e.g., PCs with updated Windows versions or modern printers) often require the latest IBM software drivers for seamless integration.
- System Recovery: If your system runs on outdated IBM software and you encounter an issue, IBM will not assist until your software is updated to a supported version. The update process can take days or weeks, resulting in significant downtime.
- Avoid Costly Renewal Penalties: If your SWMA lapses and you renew later, IBM charges an After License Fee (ALF), which can cost as much as two years of SWMA. For instance, reinstating a P10 SWMA could cost $10,500.
Other Benefits of SWMA
With SWMA, IBM can determine whether a system issue is software- or hardware-related and recommend solutions, such as the correct PTF.
Without SWMA, troubleshooting these issues becomes more challenging, especially if third-party support is your only option.
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What Is IBM ALF (After License Fee)?
ALF, or After License Fee, is a charge IBM applies to users of IBM Licensed Program Products (LPPs) who:
- Have allowed their SWMA coverage to lapse and now wish to renew.
- Purchase a used IBM i POWER server and need SWMA to access software keys required for IBM programs to function beyond the 70-day grace period.
Without these keys, essential IBM LPPs like IBM i OS, Db2 SQL, ACS or compilers will stop working after 70 days.
Why Does IBM Charge ALF?
- To encourage users to maintain continuous SWMA coverage. If SWMA lapses, renewing it along with ALF can be significantly more expensive. Missing your renewal deadline could result in substantial costs.
- To make new IBM i POWER servers more attractive compared to used IBM i servers. When factoring in ALF, a new POWER server often offers better value than a used IBM i server.
Challenges with ALF and SWMA for Used iSeries Systems
Acquiring SWMA and ALF for a used IBM i server can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring up to two months to finalize. If you are considering a used system, it’s essential to work with an experienced IBM Business Partner to navigate the process efficiently and minimize delays.
By maintaining HWMA and SWMA agreements, you can protect your IBM systems, minimize downtime, and avoid the significant costs associated with lapses in coverage. Always renew on time to stay ahead of potential challenges!
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