The perception versus reality of data masking in mainframe environments is usually caused by a significant gap between what organizational leaders think data masking requires and what it actually entails.
Many assume that data masking is complex, expensive, and time-consuming. In reality, data masking is easy, fast, and cost-effective with the right technology.
The mistaken perception stems from the fact that the difficulty isn’t the data masking operation itself. Instead, complexity lies in the upfront analysis when organizations determine what to mask and how to do it. Likewise, challenges come from data context and multiple use cases for each data set, not from the data masking technology.
For example, after mainframe data masking requirements are defined, DataVantage DME Data Masking Express™, handles the process quickly, efficiently, and affordably. Understanding this reality is important, because when organizations see how easy data masking actually is, they can modernize their data protection strategy quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.
Simplicity: Hit the ‘Easy Button’ for Data Protection
Masking with DataVantage DME is straightforward. Users specify the rules, then the technology handles the masking automatically. Another benefit is that because DataVantage DME works independently of other mainframe solutions, no changes are made to existing workflows.
Plus, DataVantage DME focuses solely on data masking, so it doesn’t require unnecessary features that could potentially complicate data masking processes or increase costs. Data teams can use the DataVantage DME solution to mask sensitive information without disrupting production environments or having deep technical expertise.
Most organizations need to configure their data just once, and then schedule recurring jobs. The process is performed as scheduled, with minimal oversight. This way, whether organizations need to mask data nightly, weekly, or monthly, they can schedule the process to become part of existing workflows.
Because DataVantage DME makes data masking easier, organizations don’t need to take a brute force approach that masks all of their data. Instead, they can mask only sensitive personally identifiable data.
Speed: Fast, Focused, and Scalable
Data masking with DataVantage DME can be performed quickly. It runs as a standalone batch process, so it doesn’t interfere with other systems or cause operations to slow down. Organizations can schedule data masking during off-peak hours or as part of existing batch workflows, ensuring sensitive data is protected without impacting business operations.
DataVantage DME is also designed to scale. It can mask full-size production databases when needed. It also supports focused data masking for specific applications, lines of business, or data domains. This flexibility allows organizations to target their data masking strategy based on each use case rather than taking an all-or-nothing approach.
Subsetting adds another layer of efficiency. With subsetting, organizations can use a small, representative slice of a masked data set for testing, development, or analytics. Because the subset contains only the data that’s needed, rather than a full copy, jobs run faster, consume fewer resources, and require less storage.
Subsetting and data masking often get mashed together, but they’re separate processes. Masking protects sensitive values. Subsetting reduces the volume of data organizations work with. Some DataVantage DME customers mask an entire production database. Others mask smaller subsets for specific applications or teams.
Cost Effectiveness: Purpose-Built and Resource-Light
DataVantage DME offers data masking capabilities at a low cost compared to other data obfuscation options. One reason is because competing tools often bundle masking as an add-on to a larger solution. This forces organizations to purchase an expensive, full-featured product, rather than a single, dedicated data masking solution.
DataVantage DME is different. It takes a single-focused approach, which is only data masking. Not having extra functions minimizes licensing, training, and resource expenses. DataVantage DME’s low overhead and standalone operation mean organizations don’t need extra infrastructure, which minimizes costs.
DataVantage DME Differentiation: Power Without Disruption
DataVantage DME runs independently from other mainframe systems, so there is zero conflict with existing software. As a result, the data masking solution offers strong performance without affecting the mainframe operating system or interfering with other applications.
DataVantage DME’s simplicity, adaptability, and affordability make it the preferred choice for organizations seeking reliable, compliant data masking that “just works.”
Five Takeaways for Business Leaders
- Masking isn’t the hard part. The challenge is deciding what to mask and how.
- Speed and agility can coexist. Masking can be a fast, standalone process.
- Decision makers decide scope. Mask full databases or targeted subsets based on need.
- Cost stays under control. A purpose-built masking tool minimizes licensing costs.
- Compliance becomes routine. Masking is a repeatable part of standard operations.
