Fixes concepts and terms

Use this information to learn more about iSeries™ software fixes including the fixes available to you, how to find out about current fixes, what a fix status means, and more.

Many concepts and terms are associated with program temporary fixes (PTFs) or fixes. In fact, throughout these topics you will see the terms program temporary fix (PTF) and fix used interchangeably. The PTF terminology existed long before the iSeries server, and today is associated mainly with the character-based interface ("green screen interface"). Its presence is seen in CL commands such as these: Display PTF (DSPPTF), Send PTF Order (SNDPTFORD), and Display PTF Cover Letter (DSPPTFCVR). The fix terminology was introduced with the graphical user interface of iSeries Navigator. Both terms mean the same thing.

• Types of fixes
  IBM provides you with a variety of fixes: cumulative program temporary fix (PTF) packages, fix groups, High Impact PERvasive (HIPER) fixes, and others.
• Fix cover letters
  Cover letters provide information about the fixes that they accompany. They explain the contents of a fix, the problem that the fix resolves, special instructions that are associated with the fix, and prerequisites or corequisites that must also be installed on your system for the fix to function properly.
• Fix save files
  Save files allow you to distribute fixes to other systems in your network and therefore allow you to keep your systems current with the latest fixes.
• Fix status information
  The status of a PTF or fix indicates the activity of that PTF or fix within a product.
• Where to find information about fixes
  Stay informed about fixes: which ones are available to you, what particular fixes can do in your environment, and which fixes may not be necessary for you. Use this information to find out where you can get the latest updates about fixes.