Using a coupling facility in your sysplex requires both hardware and software. First, you must have a processor that supports the coupling facility control code of the coupling facility. Second, you must have a processor on which one or more MVS™ images will run which is capable of attaching to the coupling facility with coupling facility links. Third, you must have the appropriate level of z/OS® that allows you to manage the coupling facility resources.

The information provided here is an overview of the points to be considered when adding a coupling facility to your sysplex.