IBM DS8000 R10.1: Power, Resiliency, and Smarter Support
The IBM DS8000® family has long been trusted to power the world’s most critical workloads. With the release of the 10th Generation DS8000 and the latest R10.1 enhancements, IBM is once again redefining performance, scalability, and resiliency for enterprise storage.
Next-Generation Performance and Scale
Since its debut in late 2024, the DS8000 G10 has seen rapid adoption. Clients are realizing significant value from innovations such as:
- HPFE performance improvements for faster response times
- FlashCore Module compression for optimized storage efficiency
- Expanded support for larger reads to improve throughput
- Enhanced zHyperlink performance for low-latency IBM Z® integration
With R10.1, the DS8000 lineup expands with two new models:
- A00 Rack-Mount System – Doubles scalability for rack deployments, delivering higher performance with NVMe HPFE enclosures and compressed FlashCore Modules
- A08 Multi-Frame System – Offers 4.8TB of system memory, more processor cores, and up to 12 zHyperlink connections, enabling consolidation without compromising cache efficiency or throughput
Built-In Cyber Resiliency
As cyberattacks become more sophisticated, enterprises need storage platforms that do more than store data—they must protect it. DS8000 R10.1 delivers enhancements aligned with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover), strengthening defenses and ensuring business continuity in the face of modern threats. To help clients maximize the value of these innovations, IBM Technology Lifecycle Services (TLS) delivers IBM Storage Expert Care—comprehensive support designed to keep DS8000 systems operating at peak performance, resiliency, and efficiency.
Simplified Support with IBM Storage Expert Care
New technology brings new opportunities—but also new complexity. That’s why IBM Technology Lifecycle Services (TLS) provides IBM Storage Expert Care for DS8000 R10.1.
Expert Care standardizes and simplifies support, offering two easy-to-quote tiers:
Advanced Tier
- Hardware maintenance with 24x7 onsite response
- Predictive Support via IBM Call Home
- IBM Support Line access
Premium Tier
- All Advanced Tier features
- Enhanced response time for defect support
- Remote Code Load (RCL) for timely code updates
- AI-powered support tools for enhanced diagnostics and faster time to problem resolution
- Dedicated Technical Account Manager (TAM) for proactive partnership
Optional Services for DS8000 R10.1
Committed Maintenance Service Levels (CMSL)
IBM Committed Maintenance offers hardware service options that extend beyond standard support, providing a committed timeframe for callbacks, onsite arrival, or repairs. This helps organizations:
- Reduce the financial impact of downtime
- Protect revenue, customer trust, and shareholder confidence
- Gain more predictable, effective support tailored to operational needs
Remote Support and Parts
For IBM Business Partners, Remote Support and Parts integrates hardware and software services into two prepackaged models:
Advanced
- 24x7 remote technical support to the Authorized Warranty Service Provider (AWSP)
- Part replacement with 5-business-day delivery to port of entry
- Software maintenance with defined response objectives
- Predictive Support with Call Home Connect Cloud and 24x7 callback
Premium
- All Advanced features plus:
- Parts replacement performed by IBM Business Partner to AWSP
- 24x7 support line for storage machines with Licensed Internal Code
- Enhanced response time: 30 minutes for Severity 1 & 2 issues
- Access to a dedicated TAM
- Remote Code Load (RCL) delivered twice per year
Media Retention ServicePac
Allows clients to retain replaced storage media (flash, SSDs, HDDs) during IBM Services activities. This enhances control over sensitive data, ensuring that defective media remains with the client instead of being returned to IBM.
Remote Code Load (RCL)
IBM experts remotely install the latest microcode for DS8000 systems without the need for onsite visits. This keeps systems on the most current and secure codebase, delivering:
- Reduced downtime through streamlined updates
- Minimized operational risks by applying fixes proactively
- Faster access to performance and security enhancements
RCL ensures DS8000 systems remain resilient, optimized, and ready for evolving workloads.
Global Total Microcode Support (GTMS)
A preventive maintenance service that delivers coordinated, cross-platform microcode updates for IBM Power and IBM Storage systems. GTMS ensures timely patching, improved performance, and stronger business continuity through IBM’s holistic software and hardware support services.
Country-Based Support (US Citizens/Persons)
For the US Government, public sector, or legally bound organizations, IBM offers an option to ensure remote voice support is provided exclusively by IBM personnel who are US citizens or persons located in the US.
Call to Action
For further details on eligible machine types, models, and service availability, please consult the IBM Storage Expert Care configurators (Conga and eConfig), your IBM representative, or your Authorized Business Partner.
Additional Links
For Questions
Please contact: 📩 Simeon Daskalski (simeon.daskalski@bg.ibm.com)
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