Fun things to do with your VM/370 CE machine – Fun with big computers

The VM/370 Community Edition is a modified version of the original VM/370 OS released by IBM, which offers various improvements and fixes. It can be run using Docker or Podman, and it operates only with open-source or public domain software. If you're lucky enough to have access to an actual IBM mainframe, you may be able to set up a nested VM/370 Community Edition, although this could involve navigating complex processes and potentially obtaining a valid license for more modern systems like z/VM or z/OS.

IBM mainframes use screen-oriented terminals, which function similarly to web browsers, where the mainframe sends a screen containing a form, the user inputs information, and the terminal sends the data back to the mainframe. To start using the VM/370 Community Edition, you can install Docker and run a shell command to bring up the machine and display its console.

Once connected, you can log onto the CMSUSER VM using the default password "CMSUSER" and begin exploring the various features and commands available.