Authorized path is a VTAM® facility that enables an application program to specify that a data transfer operates in a privileged manner. Authorized path enables an authorized application program to run entirely under a system request block (SRB) after the application program ACB has been opened. In most cases, this means a shorter path length through VTAM for RPL-related macroinstructions. An application program can be authorized by using the authorized program facility (APF) running in the supervisor state or by running in a key of 0 through 7. For a full description of authorized path, see z/OS Communications Server: SNA Programming.