FAQ


Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about the BMC AMI Resident Security Server (RSS) product.

For information about using this documentation portal, see About this documentation. For a PDF of the product documentation, see PDFs.

What is RSS?

RSS is the core infrastructure component for multiple products in the BMC AMI Security product suite. 

Which products rely on RSS as part of the BMC AMI Security suite?

RSS supports the following products:

  • BMC AMI Enterprise Connector for Illumio
  • BMC AMI Enterprise Connector for Venafi
  • BMC AMI Security Policy Manager
  • BMC AMI Security Privileged Access Manager
  • BMC AMI Security Self Service Password Reset
What is the latest supported version of RSS?

The latest fully supported version listed is 2.3, with multiple updates and enhancements referenced through product support bulletins.

How is the RSS installation package delivered?

The installation package is provided as a binary offload of a z/OS XMIT file, which must be uploaded via FTP or IND$FILE and then processed using the TSO RECEIVE command.

What steps are involved in installing RSS?

Installation involves tasks such as reviewing system requirements, uploading binary files, running the INSTALL procedure, creating external security manager (ESM) resources, defining checkpoint data sets, and updating global configuration parameters.

Are license keys required to activate RSS?

Yes. You must obtain a product license key from BMC Support and create the BMC license data set during installation.

Does RSS require definitions in the ESM?

Yes. As part of installation, administrators must create ESM resources and ensure proper access levels for users. 

What operating system does RSS support?

RSS runs within IBM z/OS environments and includes support updates aligned with major z/OS releases.

Can RSS be installed more than once if multiple BMC AMI Security products are needed?

No. If you are installing more than one BMC AMI Security product that uses RSS, you download it only once, since RSS is automatically included with the products.

What does RSS manage within the BMC AMI Security environment?

RSS provides foundational security functions, manages shared data structures, and supports communication among BMC AMI Security components.

How frequently does BMC release updates or Service Pack Enhancements for RSS?

Regular updates, enhancements, and quarterly Service Pack Enhancements (SPEs) are published to improve performance, security, and compatibility.

Where can I find release notes and technical bulletins for RSS?

You can access release notes via BMC Support Central and the A–Z Supported Product List pages.

Is RSS required for BMC AMI Security Privileged Access Manager?

Yes. RSS is a mandatory infrastructure component for BMC AMI Security Privileged Access Manager and other BMC AMI Security products.

Can RSS be upgraded independently from other products in the suite?

No. RSS is bundled with the suite. Upgrades follow standard procedures, and customers must ensure compatibility by using the PAC matrix.

How does RSS support product configuration after installation?

RSS configuration includes editing the hlq.RSSPARM members, setting JCL procedures, and updating global RSS parameters to align with site requirements.

Does RSS provide command-line interfaces for administrators?

Yes. RSS includes command descriptions, syntax details, and related reference materials in its documentation.

What kind of troubleshooting information is available for RSS?

Documentation includes a troubleshooting section addressing common issues within the RSS framework and related BMC AMI Security products.

Does RSS support custom PDF creation for documentation?

Yes. You can export full spaces or individual pages from BMC documentation into PDFs, though some limitations apply.

What started tasks are associated with RSS?

During installation, each product in the RSS suite requires activation of its started task procedure after configuring system and parameter updates.

How does RSS support secure access control?

By integrating with the system’s ESM, RSS ensures proper control of resource access within the BMC AMI Security ecosystem.

Does RSS provide checkpoints and database directory structures?

Yes. Administrators must define checkpoint data sets and create a database directory as part of installation.

How can I participate in community discussions or ask support questions?

You can access BMC Communities, knowledge base articles, videos, and support cases via the documentation site.

What support status does RSS currently hold?

Version 2.3 of RSS is documented as Full Support, with regular advisories and enhancements.

 

Tip: For faster searching, add an asterisk to the end of your partial query. Example: cert*

BMC AMI Resident Security Server 2.3