Question 1

What does SQL/AF do?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF is a tool designed to audit access to DB2 tables in z/VM and z/VSE environments. It monitors and reports on who is accessing what data, providing a detailed record of database activity. This helps organizations meet compliance requirements and identify potential security breaches.

Question 2

Is this a system, application, or tool?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF is a tool set. It provides a collection of utilities and functions specifically designed for auditing DB2 database access. It is not a full-fledged application or operating system, but rather a focused set of tools to enhance security and compliance.

Question 3

What types of organizations use this?

Accepted Answer

Organizations that require strict auditing and compliance for their DB2 databases on z/VM and z/VSE systems benefit most from SQL/AF. This includes companies in regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, and government. Any organization concerned about data security and access control on these platforms should consider using SQL/AF.

Question 4

When should we consider SQL/AF?

Accepted Answer

A company should consider SQL/AF when they need to improve their auditing capabilities for DB2 databases on z/VM and z/VSE. This is especially important when facing regulatory audits, experiencing security incidents, or needing to track data access for internal controls. It is also useful when migrating to newer versions of DB2 and needing to validate access controls.

Question 5

What are the alternatives to SQL/AF?

Accepted Answer

Alternatives to SQL/AF include general-purpose security information and event management (SIEM) systems, database activity monitoring (DAM) tools, and custom-built auditing solutions. Examples include SecureSphere Agent for z/OS and CDB/Audit. However, these may not offer the same level of integration and specific functionality for DB2 on z/VM and z/VSE.

Question 6

What infrastructure is required?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF requires a running DB2 instance on either z/VM or z/VSE. It also needs sufficient storage for audit logs and reports. The system should have the necessary security software installed and configured to allow SQL/AF to access and monitor DB2 activity. Proper network connectivity between SQL/AF and the DB2 instance is also essential.

Question 7

For mainframe products: Does this run in an LPAR?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF runs on z/VM and z/VSE operating systems. It is not z/OS dependent but requires a DB2 subsystem to be present and active. It typically runs in an LPAR environment on the mainframe.

Question 8

Does this extend/enhance another product?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF extends the auditing capabilities of DB2 by providing more detailed and specific reporting on data access. It enhances the existing DB2 security features by offering a dedicated tool for monitoring and analyzing database activity.

Question 9

What configuration files or interfaces are used?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF uses configuration files to define audit rules, specify report formats, and set up user access controls. These files are typically text-based and can be edited using standard text editors. The interface may also include panels or screens for configuring the system.

Question 10

How does SQL/AF provide business value?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF helps organizations meet regulatory compliance requirements by providing detailed audit trails of DB2 access. It reduces the risk of data breaches by identifying unauthorized access attempts. The product also improves operational efficiency by automating the auditing process and generating reports.

Question 11

What would happen if an organization did NOT use this product?

Accepted Answer

Without SQL/AF, organizations would need to rely on manual auditing processes or less comprehensive tools, which can be time-consuming and error-prone. This increases the risk of non-compliance, data breaches, and inefficient operations. The lack of detailed audit trails can also make it difficult to investigate security incidents.

Question 12

What is the typical total cost of ownership beyond licensing?

Accepted Answer

The total cost of ownership for SQL/AF includes the initial licensing fees, implementation costs, and ongoing operational expenses. Implementation costs may involve configuring the system, setting up audit rules, and training staff. Operational expenses include monitoring the system, maintaining the audit logs, and generating reports.

Question 13

What specific authentication methods are supported?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF supports authentication methods available on z/VM and z/VSE, which may include RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret. The access control model used is typically role-based access control (RBAC), where users are assigned roles with specific permissions to access DB2 data. Encryption methods used depend on the DB2 configuration and may include SSL/TLS for network communication.

Question 14

What audit/logging capabilities exist?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF provides audit logging capabilities that record all access attempts to DB2 tables, including the user ID, timestamp, and data accessed. These logs can be used to track user activity, identify potential security breaches, and demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements.

Question 15

How does SQL/AF help with data privacy regulations?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF helps organizations comply with data privacy regulations by providing detailed audit trails of data access. This allows companies to demonstrate that they are monitoring and controlling access to sensitive data, as required by regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA.

Question 16

How is SQL/AF typically deployed?

Accepted Answer

SQL/AF can be deployed on-premise, typically within the same data center as the DB2 instances it is monitoring. The implementation process involves installing the software, configuring the audit rules, and setting up user access controls. Ongoing operational requirements include monitoring the system, maintaining the audit logs, and generating reports.

Question 17

What level of technical expertise is required to implement it?

Accepted Answer

Implementing SQL/AF requires technical expertise in DB2, z/VM, and z/VSE environments. This includes knowledge of database administration, security configuration, and system programming. The implementation team should also have experience with auditing and compliance requirements.

Question 18

What are common implementation challenges?

Accepted Answer

Common implementation challenges include configuring the audit rules to capture the desired level of detail, ensuring that the system can handle the volume of audit data, and integrating SQL/AF with existing security and monitoring tools. It is also important to properly train staff on how to use the system and interpret the reports.

Share Your Product Experience

SQL/AF

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

What does SQL/AF do?

Is this a system, application, or tool?

What types of organizations use this?

When should we consider SQL/AF?

What are the alternatives to SQL/AF?

What infrastructure is required?

For mainframe products: Does this run in an LPAR?

Does this extend/enhance another product?

What configuration files or interfaces are used?

How does SQL/AF provide business value?

What would happen if an organization did NOT use this product?

What is the typical total cost of ownership beyond licensing?

What specific authentication methods are supported?

What audit/logging capabilities exist?

How does SQL/AF help with data privacy regulations?

How is SQL/AF typically deployed?

What level of technical expertise is required to implement it?

What are common implementation challenges?

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