Jobs and associated in-stream data entering the network from a local input device, internal reader, or remote workstation can execute on the entry node or any other node in the network. The entry node queues jobs and in-stream data sets destined for another node. The target node must have the proper resources (for example, the necessary tape drives, direct-access devices, and specific data sets) and must be the job's designated execution node. If you lose or change a path during work flow, the node currently processing the work will either hold the job or, when possible, select an alternate transmission path.

JES2 queues commands to a remote console processor for transmission to the command's final destination. If JES2 loses the path to the final destination, JES2 attempts to return a diagnostic message to the entry console. Severe errors can cause JES2 to discard commands without issuing unique diagnostic messages.

Messages flow through the network like commands; however, JES2 discards messages if it loses the path to the final destination.