Licensed Programs, often called LPPs or Licensed Program Products, are software packages provided by IBM or third-party vendors that you install on your IBM i system. They add specific features, tools, or applications to the core operating system (which itself is a Licensed Program under product ID 5770SS1).
Here is the key breakdown:
- Core vs. Optional: The base IBM i OS includes essentials like the command line, security, and file systems. Optional LPPs bring in extras, such as compilers (e.g., 5770WDS for ILE RPG and COBOL), database tools (e.g., 5770ST1 for DB2 Query Manager), web servers (e.g., 5770DG1 for HTTP Server), or even Java runtimes (e.g., 5770JV1 for JDKs).
- Product Identification: Each LPP has a unique product ID (like 5770xxx) and option numbers. For example, 5770SS1 Option 3 is Extended Base Directory Support. You license them via keys tied to your system's serial number.
- Why They Matter: LPPs let you customize your IBM i for development, production, or hybrid environments. Without the right ones, you cannot compile code, run Java apps, or handle advanced networking. They are managed through the Licensed Program menu, ensuring compliance and easy updates via PTFs (Program Temporary Fixes).
How to Install Licensed Programs
Installing an LPP is straightforward using the GO LICPGM command. You need installation media (physical DVD, virtual optical, or image catalog) and proper authority (typically *SECADM or QSECOFR).
Step-by-step:
- Prepare Media: Load your install source. For image catalogs, use CRTIMGCLG and LODIMGCLG to mount ISO files.
- Access the Menu: Run GO LICPGM and select Option 11 (Install licensed programs).
- Select Products: The system lists available LPPs from the media. Choose the product ID and options you want (e.g., *BASE for core, or specific options like 1 for a feature).
- Install: Confirm and let it run. It copies objects to libraries like QGPL or product-specific ones, sets up directories in IFS, and applies any prerequisites.
- Verify: After install, use DSPPTF PRODUCT(productID) or GO LICPGM Option 5 to check status. Reboot if prompted (PWRDWNSYS *IMMED RESTART(*YES)).
Example command for scripted install: INSPTF LICPGM(productID) DEV(device) for PTFs, but for full LPPs, stick to the menu for safety.
Watch for prerequisites: Some LPPs require a minimum OS level or other products. Errors like CPFxxxx mean checking WRKPRB for details.
How to Uninstall Licensed Programs
Uninstalling (or deleting) an LPP frees up space and removes unused features. Be cautious, as it can affect dependent jobs or applications.
Quick guide:
- Check Dependencies: Use DSPSFWRSC or GO LICPGM Option 5 to see what is installed and if anything relies on it (e.g., do not remove 5770JV1 if Java apps are running).
- Access the Menu: Run GO LICPGM and pick Option 12 (Delete licensed programs).
- Select and Confirm: Choose the product ID and options to remove. The system deletes libraries, objects, and IFS files associated with it.
- Clean Up: Run RCLSTG if needed to reclaim storage, and check WRKSYSSTS for ASP usage.
- Verify: Use GO LICPGM Option 5 again to confirm it is gone.
Command alternative: DLTLICPGM LICPGM(productID) OPTION(option) for automation, but test in a non-prod environment first.
Tip: If uninstalling fails due to locks, end related subsystems with ENDSBS and retry.
Wrapping Up Your First Lesson on LPPs
There you have it: Licensed Programs are your IBM i superpower for adding tools and features. Install via GO LICPGM Option 11, uninstall with Option 12, and always monitor with DSPPTF. This keeps your system lean and functional for programming tasks like RPG development or Java integration.