This IBM Redbooks® publication introduces the newest members of the IBM Z® family: the

IBM z17™ ME1, IBM z17 ME2, and IBM z17 MER. It focuses on the architectural design strengths and software ecosystem that enable organizations to address modern enterprise requirements. It also highlights how IBM z17 supports key business outcomes, including operational resilience, security, scalability, and integration with hybrid cloud and AI-driven workloads.

This publication describes the core capabilities of IBM z17, including balanced system design across compute, memory, and I/O resources; advanced virtualization for consolidation and efficiency; integrated security and resiliency; and flexible capacity and automation models. These capabilities can help organizations optimize resource usage, simplify infrastructure management, and respond effectively to changing workload demands.

In addition, the publication outlines the supported software environment, including operating systems, development frameworks, and open-source technologies. It shows how IBM z17 enables application modernization, supports DevOps practices, and integrates AI capabilities directly into operational workflows, while maintaining compatibility with existing investments.

This publication examines the key components of IBM z17, providing insights and example scenarios that illustrate how organizations can apply these capabilities. It can help you understand how IBM z17 can support evolving infrastructure strategies and business objectives.

Chapter 1. The intelligent core for modern enterprise workloads

Chapter 2. IBM z17 ME1 hardware overview

Chapter 3. IBM z17 ME2 and IBM z17 MER hardware overview

Chapter 4. IBM z17 supported features and functions

Chapter 5. IBM z17 system design strengths

Chapter 6. IBM z17 software support