Securing data in mainframe environments is not merely about installing a firewall. It involves navigating a complex landscape of legacy constraints, intricate data structures, and high-performance requirements.

The Unique Hurdles

While the benefits of data masking are clear, implementation on the mainframe comes with unique hurdles that enterprises must address to ensure a successful strategy.

1. Legacy System Constraints

Many mainframe environments were not originally designed with modern data security needs in mind. Older applications may have hard-coded dependencies on specific data formats, limiting the flexibility of standard masking techniques.

2. Complex Data Structures

Mainframe data often resides in structured repositories such as VSAM files, Db2 databases, and IMS systems. Each of these requires specialized parsing and masking techniques. For instance, non-relational databases often have free-form data structures defined only by metadata overlays in copy books, adding a layer of difficulty to data discovery.

3. Performance Considerations

Mainframes are the engines of high-volume, high-speed transactional processing. A poorly implemented data masking solution can introduce processing bottlenecks, severely impacting business operations. Masking operations must be optimized—leveraging techniques like parallel processing and efficient indexing—to avoid excessive overhead.

4. Hybrid IT Consistency

Data rarely stays in one place. As it flows between mainframes, distributed systems, and the cloud, maintaining consistency in masked data across these platforms is essential for accurate analytics and reporting.

Download our white paper to learn how to overcome these challenges and secure your legacy systems.

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HUNTINGTON, NY (March 26, 2025) – DataVantage and Advizex, leaders in Data Management, Governance Solutions and AI and Consumption IT Solutions respectively, today announced a strategic partnership to drive innovation in Everything-as-a-Service (XaaS) and AI-driven Data Preparation Services. The collaboration will empower organizations to streamline data operations, enhance governance, and accelerate AI adoption.

DataVantage software brings to the table:

• Effective data extraction
• Data transformation capabilities; and
• Data privacy and governance facilities.

Combined with Advizex’s expertise in cloud, automation, and AI Data Preparation services, organizations can effectively prepare, manage, and utilize data for AI-driven insights and scalable XaaS offerings as they navigate digital transformation.

Bill Vitiello, Co-Founder & CEO of DataVantage noted that: “Companies are challenged with managing and governing data while scaling AI and XaaS initiatives. With Advizex’s expertise, we will enhance, refine, and customize our software for their clients, empowering businesses during their digital transformation.”

Brian Swisher, VP of Services at Advizex, believes data readiness is critical: “AI and XaaS require high-quality, well-governed data. Partnering with DataVantage ensures our customers have the data management and governance frameworks needed to confidently adopt and scale AI-driven services. Together, we’re enabling organizations to unlock the full potential of their data.”

About DataVantage

Direct Computer Resources, Inc. is the owner and developer of DataVantage software, leading solutions that help organizations solve complex data management, security and governance challenges. For 40+ years, DataVantage software has supported hundreds of Fortune 500 and Global 1000 organizations with proven technology that now helps businesses navigate the complexities of AI, cloud, and digital transformation.

About Advizex

At Advizex, we celebrate 50 years of industry leadership, passionately driving digital transformation through Consumption IT. Our dedicated experts bring deep sector-specific knowledge to healthcare, education, government, manufacturing, retail, and other key industries. With more than 800 technical certifications, we deliver impactful, tailored solutions across infrastructure modernization, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and automation. By optimizing IT resources and empowering agility, we enable organizations to navigate digital demands confidently. Our commitment goes beyond technology – we’re guided by a mission to build lifelong relationships, reflected clearly in our longstanding promise: “Customers for Life.”

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Media Contacts:

Robin Rothman, 720.945.1313, rrothman@datavantage.com

Kim Kamenicky, 412.337.7935, kkamenicky@advizex.com

The post DataVantage & Advizex Partner to Advance AI-Driven Data Prep and Xaas Data Security, Governance appeared first on DataVantage.