File Integrity Monitoring (FIM) is especially important on IBM i because of the platform’s role as a central, high-value system for business-critical operations.
Here’s why it matters:
1. IBM i hosts highly sensitive and regulated data
IBM i environments often run ERP, financial, healthcare, and manufacturing systems. This means they store customer records, payroll, credit card data, patient information, and other sensitive assets that are targets for cyberattacks.
Any unauthorized change to system or application files can put you at risk of data breaches and compliance violations.
2. Compliance requirements apply to IBM i
PCI DSS, HIPAA, SOX, GDPR, and other standards require monitoring critical files for changes. FIM on IBM i helps meet these obligations by tracking database files (DB2), configuration objects, and security-related system values.
3. Detects insider threats and external attacks
Because IBM i is stable and often less visibly attacked than open systems, insider misuse can go undetected without proper monitoring.
FIM spots unauthorized changes in programs, user profiles, authority lists, exit programs, and system configuration.
4. Maintains system integrity and uptime
IBM i is valued for its reliability. FIM ensures that system binaries, commands, and configuration objects remain in a trusted state. Detecting and reversing malicious or accidental changes early helps prevent service disruption.
5. Complements other IBM i security tools
Even with strong authentication, authority management, and journaling, FIM adds a critical layer: verifying that files themselves haven’t been tampered with.
When integrated with SIEM or alerting tools, it enables real-time response to suspicious changes.
FIM on Business-critical operations
FIM is strongly recommended as a proactive security measure to quickly detect breaches, insider threats, and unauthorized alterations, helping to maintain both operational continuity and security posture.
IBM i differs from other systems, relying more on system values than files for configuration. Changes to system values are logged, enabling security officers to monitor alterations and assess compliance risks.
For database files—often containing an application’s configuration and data—monitoring can leverage IBM i features such as file comparisons, triggers, or journaling. However, while these tools contribute to FIM, they are not purpose-built for it and have limitations when used in isolation.
A robust FIM strategy on IBM i requires integrating these tools into a comprehensive solution tailored to meet both regulatory requirements and operational needs.
