Linux® on the Mainframe

8.7. Summary

When considering security for Linux on the mainframe, remember that:

• The hardware itself enjoys a higher level of physical security than the average server farm through virtualization and reduced physical resources.

• z/VM can help by using:

  - Defined roles that scope authority

  - Guest definitions to diversify types of guests and their authorizations

  - Virtual communications that eliminate the risk of wire-tapping

The use of a mainframe and z/VM can lower the total cost of ownership:

• Because fewer people need access to the physical machine, the cost of repairing damages caused by intentional or unintentional tampering with the system console, cables, and other hardware is lowered.

• z/VM ensures consistency and speed when defining the secure ...