IBM z/OS Container Platform

IBM z/OS Container Platform provides the capability to execute Open Container Initiative (OCI) standard Linux containers on z/OS, extending the functionality of z/OS Container Extensions (zCX). This allows for the deployment of a wider range of containerized applications on the z/OS platform, leveraging existing infrastructure and skills. The architecture comprises several key components: the zCX infrastructure, providing the base for container execution; the container runtime, responsible for managing the lifecycle of containers; and the container images themselves, packaged according to the OCI standard.

These components communicate through standard Linux interfaces and z/OS system services. Integration with z/OS security is achieved through RACF for authentication and authorization. The platform supports standard OCI container images, enabling deployment without modification.

Administration is performed through z/OS Management Facility (z/OSMF), while monitoring leverages z/OS Resource Management Facility (RMF). The platform also supports standard Linux container logging mechanisms. Network requirements include standard ports for container communication and z/OS system services.

The platform leverages z/OS audit logging capabilities to track container activity.