Three Key Strategies to Enhance Mainframe Security and Resilience

As the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reminds us during Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience (CISR) Month, building a secure and resilient infrastructure is not just a best practice – it’s a necessity.

Critical infrastructure systems, from power grids to healthcare networks, form the backbone of modern life. These systems must withstand an increasingly complex landscape of threats, including cyberattacks and evolving compliance requirements. At the heart of many of these critical systems lies a trusted but often overlooked workhorse: the mainframe. For decades, mainframes have served as the unsung heroes behind many of these systems, enabling organizations to handle high-volume transactions, secure sensitive data, and deliver reliable performance. But as digital transformation accelerates, these resilient systems require modernization to remain effective.

According to Forrester, 41% of IT leaders view security and compliance as their top concern for modernization initiatives, underscoring the high stakes of infrastructure protection. In honor of CISR Month, here are three key strategies for fortifying your mainframe security and resilience.

Strengthen security and compliance with robust data management

Mainframes inherently provide a high level of security, particularly for data housed in centralized environments. However, in today’s hybrid-cloud landscapes, the challenges multiply as IT teams manage data flowing across diverse environments.

To maintain security and compliance:

• Encrypt sensitive data to add a critical layer of protection.
• Implement advanced authentication protocols to deter unauthorized access.
• Continuously monitor and audit data flows to ensure compliance with industry regulations.
• Monitor and maintain storage health standards for optimal performance.

Failing to protect critical data not only invites financial penalties but also risks irreparable reputational harm. A well-implemented data management strategy is the cornerstone of effective CISR practices.

Develop and regularly test disaster recovery plans

It’s imperative to have security practices in place to protect against breaches, however, crises must be treated as inevitable. Whether caused by cyberattacks, human error, or natural disasters, disruptions can be devastating without a robust disaster recovery plan.

Key elements of a strong disaster recovery strategy include:

• Clear recovery playbooks tailored to specific crisis scenarios.
• Frequent backups and recovery drills to ensure minimal downtime.
• Comprehensive risk assessments to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Surprisingly, only 54% of organizations have a company-wide disaster recovery plan in place, leaving them exposed to significant operational and financial risks. Proactive preparation is essential for minimizing downtime and ensuring resilience.

Identify and close gaps through training and strategic partnerships

Many organizations fall short of strong CISR practices—especially regarding the mainframe—due to talent shortages as experienced professionals retire and newer IT specialists focus on cloud technologies. This skills gap, coupled with misaligned processes or insufficient tools, can hinder an organization’s ability to implement strong CISR practices.

To address these challenges:

• Invest in ongoing training to up-skill teams on critical protocols and scenarios.
• Use documentation and clear communication practices to align IT teams during routine operations and crises.
• Identify and resolve technology gaps by deploying advanced tools that enable rapid data recovery and enhanced system resilience.

When gaps in expertise or technology arise, partnering with a trusted provider like Rocket Software can make all the difference. With decades of experience, Rocket Software offers the advanced data recovery tools, guidance, and expertise to help organizations implement best-in-class CISR practices and stay ahead of emerging threats.

Resilience starts with proactive measures

In today’s complex landscape, organizations can no longer afford to treat security and resilience as afterthoughts. By prioritizing strong data management, disaster recovery planning, and continuous improvement through training and partnerships, businesses can ensure their mainframe environments remain secure, compliant, and prepared for the unexpected.

Learn how Rocket Software can help your organization build a more resilient future.