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    OpenVMS

    What is OpenVMS Operating System

    OpenVMS, short for Open Virtual Memory System, is a highly reliable and secure multi-user operating system originally developed by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). Known for its robustness and scalability, it features strong process isolation, clustering capabilities, and comprehensive security measures, making it ideal for mission-critical environments.

    While the VAX and Alpha hardware that it typically ran on is no longer manufactured, the OpenVMS operating system has withstood the test of time and the critical applications running on it are still at the core of many business operations.

    Is an Upgraded Version of OpenVMS Necessary?

    When businesses emulate their legacy hardware with Stromasys, we’re often asked whether an upgraded version of OpenVMS is necessary. There are minimum versions of OpenVMS os required, based on the VAX or Alpha servers to be virtualized, but majority of businesses do not need to upgrade. Here’s why:

    Benefits of OpenVMS

    No changes required to your OpenVMS operating system

    The most obvious benefit of using OpenVMS is that the legacy system continues to function just as it always has. In fact, in many implementations the end users were entirely unaware that changes had taken place, and the application performs better. The end user feels no change in the OpenVMS os except increased efficient performance, such as a report that can be completed in a fraction of the time it would have taken on the original hardware.

    OpenVMS is entirely compatible with original DEC system

    A second benefit is that the Charon Vax and Alpha emulator translation is bit-for-bit compatible with original DEC systems, including floating point precision.

    Stromasys uses Digital Equipment Corp.- developed tools to ensure Charon is 100% compatible with the original hardware, including MDM (MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor), UETP (User Environment Test Package, part of VMS), and AXE (DEC’s VAX and Alpha CPU architecture verification tool).

    There is no recertification necessary

    Another benefit to our legacy hardware emulation solutions is that, because nothing above the hardware level is modified, which includes OpenVMS, no recertification is required.

    For many verticals operating under heavy regulations or compliance standards, changes to the OpenVMS os or application would require that the business to undergo a lengthy and exhaustive recertification process to validate the system, but the Stromasys Charon solution makes that unnecessary.

    By exchanging the aging hardware for a more modern, reliable alternative, Charon solutions mitigate risk while providing a straightforward and low-hassle path to business continuity.

    Operational Efficiencies

    With the virtualization of organization’s Alpha and Vax environments, companies can experience enormous savings from decreased service and support costs, downtime, and SG&A. In addition, the new Open x86 servers are much more environmentally friendly, providing power and resource savings versus the Vax and Alpha servers.

    Stromasys Charon Solutions

    Our solution is a hardware replacement solution—we don’t change the applications, databases, or legacy OpenVMS operating system running on that hardware without any modifications or code recompile.

    Charon software allows a modern Open x86 server to function the same way the legacy server always did. This means that it doesn’t matter what version of OpenVMS os, or other legacy OS, you’re running.

    Stromasys offers both cloud-based as well as on-perm options. If you choose to transition with us to OpenVMS on the cloud, you’ll have a range of cloud options to choose from, each with its own unique benefits. These include:

    • The Microsoft Azure Cloud
    • The AWS Cloud
    • The Google Cloud
    • The Oracle Cloud

    Stromasys promises a smooth transition. When you virtualize with us, nothing has to change. Your OpenVMS operating system will work the way it always has. The only difference is that you’ll be able to get rid of the aging hardware that’s slowing you down, which means reduced maintenance costs.

    Furthermore, transitioning with us ensures that your end users don’t feel any difference. And, if they do notice anything different in the OpenVMS operating system, it’s that processes seem to happen more quickly, and that less downtime is experienced. There is no learning curve, and no recertification is required.

    To discover more about Charon solutions and modernize your legacy systems while maintaining business continuity,Contact Us

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1.What is OpenVMS and what sets it apart from other operating systems?

    OpenVMS is a robust and secure operating system, and its unique features include clustering capabilities, advanced security mechanisms, and support for legacy applications.

    2.Is OpenVMS still relevant in today’s computing landscape?

    Yes, OpenVMS operating system remains relevant, especially in industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing where uptime, security, and stability are paramount. Many organizations rely on OpenVMS for running critical applications and maintaining legacy systems.

    3.Can OpenVMS applications be modernized or migrated to newer platforms?

    While OpenVMS itself doesn’t require modernization, its applications definitely need it. The various strategies include re-platforming, re-engineering, or using emulation and virtualization solutions to run them on contemporary hardware. Each approach depends on the specific requirements and constraints of the organization.

    4.What support options are available for OpenVMS users?

    OpenVMS users can access support services from various sources, including the official OpenVMS support organization, third-party vendors, user communities, and consulting firms specializing in OpenVMS.