AS/400 (IBM i) Commands – Ultimate Guide

AS400 commands are a part of the Control Language (CL) and are executed via a command-line interface to manage, operate, and automate tasks on IBM i. These commands usually follow a “Verb-Noun” naming structure and used across well-known areas such as –

• Job & System Management
• Library & Object Management
• File & Data Management
• User & Security
• Developer Tools

We cover everything you need to know – what AS400 commands are, the different types, practical examples, and the benefits they bring to users and administrators alike

What Are AS400 Programming Commands?

IBM developers wrote IBM AS400 programming commands to perform tasks such as backing up data, compiling programs, changing system configurations, and displaying or deleting system object details.

These commands manage system-level issues and are useful for drafting user-level applications. Mostly, AS400 commands are used by programmers + system administrators + users.

Programming commands on the AS/400 can range from file/library management to job management, data manipulation, security & systems, and more.

List of common AS400 System Commands includes –

For specific control over programming tasks, each AS 400 command follows a set of parameters to execute a function.

Now, consider the different AS400 commands with examples useful for your systems.
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What are the Different Types of AS400 Commands?

IBM i is a robust and integrated operating system that supports various types of commands to cater to different aspects of system operation and management.

Each AS400 command has the following aspects –

• Up to 10 characters
• A mix of 2-3 truncated words
• A verb followed by the object

Here’s a breakdown of the various AS400 command types –

AS400 CL Commands (Control Language)

CL commands are the foundation of the AS400’s command system. They are used to interact with the operating system, control jobs, work with the database, and handle system configurations.

These commands are identifiable by their three-letter prefixes. See the examples below –

• WRK for work-related commands – WRKJOBQ – work with job queues
• CRT for creation commands – CRTLIB – create a library

AS-400 SQL Commands (Structured Query Language)

To manage and modify databases, AS400 SQL commands are useful.

With the AS/400’s integrated DB2 database, SQL commands can perform operations such as –

• Data query
• Table creation
• Database object management

See the examples of AS400 system commands –

SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE

AS 400 RPG Commands

RPG (Report Program Generator) is a high-level programming language used on the AS 400 system for business applications.

While RPG isn’t a command, the system includes commands like (CRTBNDRPG) to compile RPG code, (STRDBG) to debug, and manage RPG programs.

AS/400 System Control Commands

These types of AS400 commands are used to –

• Start and stop the system and its services
• Manage jobs
• handle services
• Schedule tasks
• Configure system parameters

For example –

PWRDWNSYS command – To Power Down the System

STRSST command – To Start the System Service Tools

AS400 File and Member Commands

AS/400 uses this set of commands to manage files (physical and logical) and their members (data within the files). AS400 iSeries Commands such as CRTPF (create physical file) and ADDPFM (add physical file member) fall into this category.

As these commands are the primary interface for system interaction, you must know the important benefits of using commands in AS400 systems.

Moving on, let’s understand why these commands are a must for users.
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Why AS400 Commands Are Essential for AS400 Users?

AS400 (Application System/400) stands out compared to the new computer systems operated through visual interfaces because it relies on text-based commands.

There are multiple reasons why these commands are so crucial for AS/400 users.

Here we have listed a few important reasons.

Direct System Access

AS400 commands provide a simple, direct way to communicate with the system that allows you or your team of users to perform tasks without confusion.

It is useful for routine operations and when the AS400 developers need to be sure of the exact action being performed.

AS 400 reduces the layers of menus and buttons found in GUIs using commands, ensuring a minimized margin of errors and desired results.

Automation

Setting up scripts is possible with AS400 commands to handle tasks that need to be repeated. It ensures tasks are being executed similarly by your team of AS400 programmers. Additionally, it helps you in

• Maintaining consistency
• Upholding accuracy to complete the task

Consider a situation where you are automating end-of-day (EOD)processes, data backups, and system maintenance tasks by utilizing an IBM i command script.

After these scripts are tested and executed properly, it continues to follow the same series of steps whenever they run. Here, repeatability shows that tasks are completed without changes, lessening the risk of errors.

Control and Management

The AS/400 commands give you a lot of control over the system, letting your AS400 developers manage how they run and change settings in a detailed way.

This feature is essential for keeping your AS 400 system running seamlessly. With these well-structured commands, you can handle differential functions, such as –

• Starting and stopping jobs
• Monitoring system performance
• Controlling access to various system resources

These commands can empower your AS400 administrators to adapt to changing workload or business needs and effectively implement new processes or even edit existing ones.

Efficiency

Once your dedicated team of AS400 programmers becomes handy on AS400 commands, your team can simply rely on commands and stop navigating through a multi-step graphical interface.

It increases the response to user input when the programmers are sitting on tight deadlines and must make quick decisions.

IBM AS400 Commands allow for the swift execution of complex sequences that would otherwise take multiple clicks and screen transitions.

The efficiency extends to executing batch jobs, where a single command can initiate a series of actions.

Batch processing

Batch processing using AS400 commands is a powerful feature that enables your team of AS400 programmers to manage large-scale data operations and automate sequences.

You can run these Commands in groups, or in ‘batches,’ which is great for dealing with a large amount of data or performing a series of tasks under time constraints. It helps make the best use of the AS400 system’s resources and your programmer’s time.

Consider the scenario below for better understanding.

If you automate day-end processing for financial transactions, batch updates, or customer records updates.

The dependability of AS/400 in executing these batch commands ensures that –

• Consistent process completion
• No human errors
• Data integrity maintenance
• Operational continuity

The necessity of utilizing commands is enormous, but you must ensure your team of AS400 programmers has early access to a commonly used command cheat sheet.

Keep reading to find out the one-stop AS400 commands cheat sheet your team needs.

Commonly Used AS400 Commands Cheat Sheet

We have created a detailed yet useful guide for commonly used commands with their technical purpose.

Whether you’re an experienced AS 400 operator or a beginner to the platform, this cheat sheet provides a detailed and helpful summary of the key commands needed for daily operations.

The tables below show you what the most common AS400 commands are used for in the enterprise environment, taken from the IBM documentation site

Your AS400 developers can use the above-shared cheat sheet to improve their work on AS400 systems and help you achieve your desired results.

Next, you must understand the role of commands in AS400 administration and development.

How AS400 Commands Support Administration and Development?

AS400 commands are the essential tools for AS400 administrators to boost the system’s health, deploy configurations, and guarantee everything runs as defined.

It works smartly, where you can press buttons to begin and manage processes, like having remote access for the overall system.

In addition to this,  AS400 developers make use of AS400 iSeries Commands to create, edit, and handle the programs that run on the AS 400 system.

These commands help move through various stages of development, that includes code writing, code testing, and deploying it in the end.

Simply, the iSeries commands are the basis for boosting user productivity, reducing manual errors, and creating useful applications for your business.

But to make the most of the commands, your AS400 programmers must be experienced in their efficient use and adept at leveraging their capabilities.

• Do you want to maximize AS400 system commands?
• Do you have an in-house team of AS/400 developers who struggle to optimize commands fully?
• Or is your AS400 technical talent retiring or leaving, and you want an extended team without the burden of hiring in-house?

Fret not!

Engage with AS400 consulting services providers. They are AS400 experts who will guide you to make the most out of the AS400 commands for peak performance.

Uncertain how engaging with AS/400 consultants will help?

Read on to find out how a dedicated AS400 service provider proves instrumental for your business.

How AS400 Providers Improve System Performance?

As your business operations steadily grow, the complexities of managing your AS 400 operations also multiplies.

This is where the expertise of AS400 experts proves instrumental.

Here’s how they utilize AS400 programming commands for your business benefit.

They Fine-tune AS400 Commands to Reduce Processing Time

There are hundreds of AS-400 commands, and each command impacts the system operations differently. This is where fine-tuning becomes critical.

The AS400 consulting experts leverage their deep expertise and specialized tools to analyze command usage patterns, identify flaws, and apply required solutions.

This approach refines commands and improves your AS400 systems’ responsiveness and overall user efficiency.

They Tailor Commands and Configurations to Align with Specific Business Needs

Your team of AS/400 administrators and developers may use IBM AS400 commands but may not always have the time or expertise to utilize them fully.

AS400 service providers step in with proven expertise and resources to precisely tailor commands and ensure alignment with your business objectives.

They save you valuable time and guarantee top-notch performance without direct involvement of internal resources.

They Apply Industry Best Practices for AS/400 Command Usage

Using AS 400 commands is one thing but leveraging them according to the industry standards calls for expert knowledge and endless adaptation to evolving standards.

An expert AS400 consultant sleeps over the iSeries commands released now and then. And they strive to make the most of it for you.

They come with a promise that your AS-400 system will run efficiently, adapt to evolving trends, and constantly deliver optimal performance, giving your business the edge it needs.

Now that you know how an investment in AS400 services partner and AS/400 consultants pays off, let’s look at who is the leading provider of AS400 services in the United States.

If you want to save time and ensure that your AS 400 systems are managed with professional expertise, then turn to Integrative Systems.

How Integrative Systems Supports AS400 Command Optimization

AS400 commands are instrumental in managing system administration and development, providing accuracy, effectiveness, and control.

If your business wants to uncover the AS/400 system commands with the best potential, you should rely on experts who understand every aspect of AS400 Commands.

Why Integrative Systems?

Check out our range of AS400 Services –

• Hire iSeries Developers
• AS400 Support Services
• AS400 Consulting Services
• AS400 Integration Services
• AS400 Automation Services
• IBM i Modernization Services
• AS400 Cloud Migration Services
• AS400 Application GUI Modernization Services

Let’s get talking to discuss your challenges, ideas, and aspirations.

You can see us here at  contact@integrativesystems.com , and our expert will definitely respond within 2-3 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions about AS/400 Commands

How do I execute file management commands on the AS400 system?

To execute file management on the AS400 system is possible with Control Language (CL) commands, either from the command line or by operating within system menus.

What are AS400 BRMS Commands?

AS400 BRMS commands are useful to automate, handle, and track backup, recovery, and media movement policies, including –

• STRBKUBRM – start backup
• WRKMEDBRM – work with media
• SAVLIBBRM – save library
• RSTLIBBRM – restore library

How to display all active jobs on a mid-range business server?

Use the WRKACTJOB (Work with Active Jobs) Command to see all active jobs on an IBM i business server. This command displays system jobs, user jobs, and all active subsystems.

Can I automate AS400 command sequences?

Absolutely. You can automate AS/400 command sequences to optimize business processes, enhance security, and minimize human errors. The basic methods include CL Programs, Job Scheduling, Power Automate Desktop, RPA tools, and other similar methods.

How to create iasp in AS400?

There are two ways to create iASPs, where the first one utilizes the Configure Device ASP command, i.e. CFGDEVASP, on green screens or utilizing. The other one utilizes System Director Navigator for i.

Navigation and productivity features in the IBM i (AS/400) command line

To avoid mistakes while using commands, you must use the instructions below –

• F4 (Prompt) – Typing a command and pressing F4 opens a prompt screen that lists all available parameters and options.
• F9 (Retrieve) – Retrieves the last command you entered.
• GO MAIN – Returns you to the IBM i Main Menu.
• GO [Topic] – You can type GO followed by a keyword (like GO SAVE or GO JOB) to see a menu of all commands related to that specific task.

About the Author

Mike Crowley

Director of Customer Success – IBM i

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Starting as an RPG programmer and evolving into a customer success leader, Mike has spent 30+ years shaping the IBM i landscape. His experience in IT, presales, and sales enables him to bridge business needs with technical depth. By simplifying even the toughest IBM i modernization challenges, Mike has become a trusted guide for enterprises nationwide.

He shapes smart account strategies and lasting customer relationships that lead to meaningful, sustained outcomes. At Integrative Systems, Mike guides customers through IBM i modernization with clarity and confidence. His steady, relationship-first approach unites teams, elevates customer experience, and drives long-term growth.