The IBM AS400 (now IBM i) platform has been a cornerstone of enterprise computing for decades, providing a robust, secure, and scalable environment for critical business applications. Even in the age of cloud computing and AI, IBM i continues to be widely used in industries such as banking, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail.
With organizations depending on IBM i systems for data processing, ERP solutions, and transaction management, the demand for AS400-certified professionals remains high. But why should you consider getting AS400 certification?
In this blog, we will explore:
✅ What AS400 certification is and why it matters
✅ How it benefits your career and salary prospects
✅ Why companies prefer AS400-certified professionals
✅ How to get started with AS400 certification
Let’s dive in! 🚀
1. What is AS400 Certification?
AS400 Certification is an official credential from IBM and other authorized providers that validates your expertise in managing, programming, and securing IBM i (AS400) systems. These certifications prove your skills in:
✔ IBM i System Administration – Managing hardware, system configurations, and backups.
✔ RPG, CL, and COBOL Programming – Developing applications for AS400.
✔ IBM DB2 Database Management – Handling queries, indexing, and performance tuning.
✔ Security and Compliance – Ensuring data integrity, encryption, and user authentication.
✔ Integration with Modern Technologies – Connecting IBM i with cloud, APIs, and web applications.
💡 Fact: Over 100,000 companies worldwide still rely on IBM i (AS400), making certified professionals highly valuable in the IT job market.
2. Why AS400 Certification is Essential for IBM i Professionals
2.1. High Demand for AS400 Professionals
Despite newer technologies, IBM i remains one of the most stable, secure, and widely used enterprise computing platforms.
✔ 90% of Fortune 500 companies use IBM i for mission-critical workloads.
✔ Many banks, insurance companies, and logistics firms rely on AS400 for secure transaction processing.
✔ Legacy system maintenance requires skilled professionals who can manage, update, and integrate AS400 with modern systems.
💡 Example: Major companies like JPMorgan Chase, FedEx, and Walmart still use IBM i for their backend operations.
2.2. Competitive Edge in the Job Market
An AS400 certification makes you stand out from other IT professionals, increasing your chances of landing high-paying jobs.
📌 Hiring managers prefer certified professionals because they can:
✔ Manage AS400 system configurations and security settings
✔ Develop and optimize RPG, CL, and COBOL applications
✔ Handle database administration with IBM DB2
✔ Implement disaster recovery and high availability solutions
💡 Fact: Certified IBM i professionals earn 20-30% more than non-certified candidates.
2.3. Higher Salary Potential
Certified AS400 professionals earn significantly more due to their specialized skills and industry demand.
📌 Entry-Level IBM i Administrator: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
📌 Mid-Level IBM i Developer: $90,000 – $120,000 per year
📌 Senior AS400 System Engineer: $120,000 – $150,000 per year
💡 Example: A certified IBM i System Administrator is more likely to get a promotion and higher salary raises compared to a non-certified administrator.
2.4. Validates Your Expertise in IBM i System Management
AS400 certification proves your ability to:
✔ Manage IBM i security and user access controls
✔ Optimize system performance and resource allocation
✔ Automate tasks using CL (Control Language) programming
✔ Troubleshoot hardware and software issues effectively
💡 Example: Large enterprises trust IBM i-certified professionals to handle critical system operations without downtime.
2.5. Helps You Transition into Cloud and Hybrid IT Roles
Many organizations are integrating IBM i with modern cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Certification helps you:
✔ Learn how to migrate IBM i workloads to cloud environments
✔ Work on hybrid cloud solutions combining AS400 with modern web and API services
✔ Manage IBM i cloud-hosted services (Power Virtual Server on IBM Cloud)
💡 Fact: Many AS400-certified professionals are now transitioning into IBM Cloud and DevOps roles.
2.6. Opens Doors to More Career Opportunities
With an AS400 certification, you can apply for:
📌 IBM i System Administrator
📌 AS400 Developer (RPG, CL, COBOL)
📌 IBM i Database Administrator (DB2 Specialist)
📌 IT Security Specialist (IBM i Security & Compliance)
📌 Cloud Integration Engineer (IBM i to AWS/Azure Migration)
💡 Example: Many organizations are looking for hybrid IT professionals who can integrate IBM i with cloud and modern DevOps practices.
3. How to Get Started with AS400 Certification?
If you’re ready to become AS400 Certified, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose the Right AS400 Certification
✔ IBM Certified System Administrator – IBM i (For system admins)
✔ IBM Certified Developer – RPG for IBM i (For RPG programmers)
✔ IBM Certified Advanced System Operator – IBM i (For advanced operations)
Step 2: Enroll in a Training Program
✔ IBM Training Programs – Official IBM courses on IBM i administration and programming
✔ Online Platforms – Udemy, Coursera, and Koenig Solutions offer AS400 training
Step 3: Get Hands-On Practice
✔ Set up an IBM i environment using IBM Cloud or Power Systems
✔ Work on real-world projects with RPG, DB2, and CL programming
Step 4: Take Practice Exams & Prepare for the Test
✔ Use mock exams and IBM’s official certification practice tests
✔ Revise key topics like system security, performance tuning, and automation
Step 5: Schedule and Pass the Certification Exam
✔ Register for the IBM certification exam on Pearson VUE
✔ Take the exam and become a certified IBM i professional! 🎉
Final Thoughts
The IBM AS400 (IBM i) platform remains one of the most stable and widely used enterprise solutions. As companies continue to rely on IBM i for business-critical operations, the demand for skilled AS400 professionals is growing.
Key Takeaways:
✔ AS400 certification validates your IBM i skills and increases your job opportunities
✔ Certified professionals earn 20-30% more than non-certified IBM i professionals
✔ AS400 expertise is crucial for cloud migration, security, and hybrid IT roles
✔ Certification helps you stand out as a system administrator, developer, or IT security specialist
💡 Are you ready to take your IBM i career to the next level? Start your AS400 certification journey today and become a highly sought-after IBM i expert! 🚀
Koenig Solutions, a leading IT training company, offers comprehensive training courses for AS400 Certification. The company has a team of experienced trainers who provide in-depth knowledge and practical exposure to the participants.
The company's AS400 training courses are designed to equip the participants with the necessary skills to handle and manage IBM iSeries servers. The training modules cover all aspects of the certification, ensuring a high success rate.
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