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Basics of z/OS RACF Administration

The Basics of z/OS RACF Administration course by IBM equips new z/OS security administrators with foundational skills to manage mainframe access control, define user groups, and protect critical data sets using RACF. Designed for IT professionals entering mainframe security roles, it addresses the industry need where over 70% of Fortune 500 companies still rely on IBM Z systems for core operations. Hands-on labs build practical confidence in securing z/OS environments.

This course prepares learners for the IBM Mainframe RACF Security Administrator Level I certification. Koenig Solutions offers official vendor-authorized courseware and 30-day lab access, ensuring mastery of RACF fundamentals. Graduates gain the skills to secure enterprise-grade mainframes and qualify for roles in high-demand sectors like banking and healthcare.

40 Hours (5 Days)
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Course Overview

The IBM course Basics of z/OS RACF Administration is designed for individuals new to z/OS and responsible for security administration using the RACF element of the z/OS Security Server. This foundational training prepares learners for roles such as Mainframe Security Administrator, z/OS Systems Programmer, and IT Security Analyst, equipping them with essential skills to manage access control in enterprise environments. With over 70% of Fortune 500 companies still relying on IBM mainframes for critical operations, expertise in RACF remains in high demand. The course covers core concepts including TSO, ISPF/PDF, batch processing, and z/OS data sets, providing a solid grounding in the z/OS environment necessary for effective security management.

Participants engage with key IBM technologies and tools such as z/OS Security Server RACF, Time Sharing Option (TSO), Interactive System Productivity Facility (ISPF), System Display and Search Facility (SDSF), Job Control Language (JCL), and z/OS data sets. The hands-on lab environment uses real z/OS systems where students perform practical exercises like logging into the system, allocating datasets, submitting batch jobs, and reviewing output via SDSF. A central project involves building a complete RACF group structure, defining user profiles, delegating administrative authority, and protecting both general resources and z/OS data sets. These labs reinforce learning by simulating real-world scenarios such as securing sensitive data through proper profile configuration and access controls.

This course prepares candidates for the IBM Mainframe RACF Security Administrator Level I certification, recognized across industries for validating foundational mainframe security competencies. Professionals with RACF skills command competitive salaries, with mid-level mainframe administrators earning between $90,000 and $130,000 annually in North America. Koenig Solutions enhances this learning path with official IBM courseware, Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling, and optional 1-on-1 training to ensure mastery. Upon completion, learners are positioned to advance into specialized security roles or pursue advanced credentials like the IBM Mainframe RACF Security Administrator Level II certificate, strengthening their long-term career trajectory in enterprise IT security.

What You'll Learn

Manage z/OS data sets efficiently using ISPF/PDF in the IBM RACF environment, ensuring data integrity and security
Administer IBM RACF user and group profiles to control access and enhance system security
Protect z/OS data sets with RACF security to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches
Implement IBM RACF protection for general resources, safeguarding critical system components
Configure IBM RACF options for system customization, optimizing security policies to meet organizational needs
Utilize RACF administrative tools for auditing and reporting, ensuring compliance and tracking security activities

Skills You'll Gain

z/OS Data Sets RACF User Administration RACF Group Structure TSO Security Configuration ISPF/PDF Navigation JCL Job Submission SDSF Job Monitoring RACF Resource Protection Universal Access Authority RACF Database Unload Started Procedure Table Global Access Table Protected User Setup Restricted User Attribute Digital Certificate Mapping RACF Command Parameters RACF Options Configuration

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Fundamental knowledge of z/OS architecture and system components
  • Familiarity with TSO/E commands and ISPF/PDF navigation
  • Ability to write basic JCL and understand batch processing workflows
  • Understanding of z/OS catalog structures and data set allocation methods
  • Basic comprehension of enterprise security principles and access control models
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Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the Basics of z/OS RACF Administration certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
Format
Multiple choice, labs & case studies
Questions
Duration
Passing Score
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Retake Policy
N/A
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Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– Mastering z/OS and RACF Fundamentals
Review z/Architecture and z/OS systems Navigate ISPF and ISPF/PDF interfaces Hands-on lab: Secure system logon Manage critical z/OS data sets Practical exercise: Data set manipulation Execute batch processing workflows Analyze jobs via SDSF views IBM Basics of z/OS RACF Administration overview
2
Day 2– Core RACF Security Architecture
Advanced IBM RACF security concepts Analyze four primary RACF functions Master RACF resource authorization checks Configure UACC, access lists, user profiles Define security administrator and auditor roles Implement robust RRSF security features Build scalable RACF group structures Validate security configurations via review
3
Day 3– Efficient User and Group Administration
Administer RACF groups and users Architect secure RACF group hierarchies Provision new users within RACF Deploy centralized and decentralized administration Advanced user and group management techniques Hands-on exercise: User administration tasks Audit security configuration review Delegate secure administration permissions
4
Day 4– Data Set and Resource Protection
Secure z/OS data sets effectively Practical exercise: Data set protection Review data set security protocols Advanced z/OS data set protection Hands-on exercise: Advanced data protection Review security protection exercises Introduction to general resource classes Administer TSO via RACF controls
5
Day 5– Advanced RACF Administration Strategies
Review advanced administration exercises Plan RACF options for maximum impact Identify critical system RACF options Configure basic installation RACF options Optimize global access table usage Leverage started procedure table functions Define protected and restricted user accounts Utilize RACF database unload utilities

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Career Outcomes

78%

of Basics of z/OS RACF Administration certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+22%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the Basics of z/OS RACF Administration certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • Mainframe Security Administrator
  • RACF Engineer
  • z/OS Security Specialist
  • Mainframe Access Control Engineer
  • Senior RACF Administrator
  • Principal Cyber Security Engineer (Mainframe)

Companies Hiring

5,000+
IBM Kyndryl JPMorgan Chase Bank of America First Citizens Bank Huntington National Bank Morgan Stanley Deloitte Accenture Cognizant

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking Basics of z/OS RACF Administration certified professionals

Real Transformations

Course Student Reviews

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    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

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  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

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  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

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    Cloud Solutions Architect

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  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

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    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

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    AI Engineer

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    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

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    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Basics of z/OS RACF Administration training course

Is the certification exam included in the course fee, and what is the cost of the exam if separate?
The Basics of z/OS RACF Administration course fee excludes the certification exam. You must purchase the IBM Professional Certificate exam separately via IBM's portal for $200 USD. While Koenig Solutions offers optional exam vouchers in bundled packages, the standard training price does not cover this assessment cost.
What training formats are available for this course, and is Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling offered?
Koenig Solutions delivers Basics of z/OS RACF Administration through live online, classroom, and 1-on-1 private formats, all featuring Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling. This ensures your session proceeds regardless of enrollment numbers. Every format includes hands-on labs and direct interaction with certified instructors who specialize in advanced IBM mainframe security technologies.
How long is lab access provided, and what type of environment is used during training?
You receive 30 days of lab access via Koenig’s LET Platform, utilizing secure cloud-based sandboxes on IBM Z systems. These labs replicate real-world z/OS operations, enabling you to practice RACF commands, dataset protection, and security configurations within an isolated, vendor-supported infrastructure that mirrors actual enterprise mainframe deployments.
What is Koenig's rescheduling and cancellation policy for this course?
Koenig permits free rescheduling for Basics of z/OS RACF Administration if requested over 7 days before the start date. Cancellations made 7 or more days prior incur no fees, while requests within 7 days may trigger a nominal administrative charge. Written notice is mandatory for all changes to ensure accurate processing.
What is the format, number of questions, passing score, and time limit for the certification exam?
The IBM Skills Benchmark for Basics of z/OS RACF Administration consists of 50–60 multiple-choice and scenario-based questions with a 90-minute limit. A 70% score is required to pass, per IBM’s psychometric standards. The exam tests your proficiency in group/user administration, dataset protection, general resource security, and essential RACF configuration options.
How long is the certification valid, and what is the renewal process and cost?
The IBM Skills Benchmark for Basics of z/OS RACF Administration is valid indefinitely with no expiration date. No renewal process or fee exists, as the certification validates foundational knowledge. Upon successful completion, you retain your digital badge credentials permanently through the IBM Credly platform, demonstrating your expertise to future employers.
What post-training support does Koenig provide after completing the course?
Koenig offers 30 days of post-training support, including recorded sessions, expert mentor guidance, and downloadable materials. You gain access to exam preparation tips and dedicated doubt-clearing sessions. Our Happiness Guarantee allows you to retake the Basics of z/OS RACF Administration course at no additional cost if you are not fully satisfied.
Are there any prerequisites or prior experience needed before taking this course?
No formal prerequisites exist for Basics of z/OS RACF Administration, though familiarity with TSO, ISPF/PDF, batch processing, and data sets is helpful. We dedicate the first day to reviewing these foundational z/OS topics, making this course ideal for professionals transitioning into critical mainframe security administration roles.
What career opportunities and salary ranges can I expect after completing this course?
Completing Basics of z/OS RACF Administration qualifies you for roles like Mainframe Security Analyst, with average North American salaries between $85,000 and $110,000. Certified professionals are highly valued in government and financial sectors, where specialized mainframe security expertise consistently commands premium compensation and long-term career stability.
How does instructor-led training compare to self-study for mastering z/OS RACF Administration?
Instructor-led training provides structured learning, real-time expert feedback, and live z/OS lab access—essential for mastering complex RACF policies. Unlike self-study, which often leaves knowledge gaps, Koenig’s live format accelerates your proficiency by 40–50% based on internal metrics, ensuring you gain practical, job-ready skills through guided troubleshooting.
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