A New Approach to Mainframe Passwords: Get Rid of Them

This whitepaper explores why traditional mainframe passwords have become a major security and operational risk in modern enterprises. While network and cloud systems have evolved with strong identity and access management, mainframe access still relies on weak, outdated password practices that frustrate users and burden IT teams. The disconnect between network security and mainframe environments creates vulnerabilities, compliance challenges, and inefficiencies. By eliminating mainframe passwords and extending enterprise IAM controls to terminal emulation, organizations can strengthen security without disrupting critical systems. This modern approach improves usability, reduces risk, and supports regulatory compliance while preserving the reliability mainframes are known for.

• Explains the security and usability problems of mainframe passwords
• Highlights the gap between network and mainframe authentication
• Describes a password-less approach using enterprise IAM
• Supports stronger security without impacting mainframe reliability