LINK2i is a .NET SDK (dll) delivered as a NuGet package and designed to be fully integrated in Microsoft Visual Studio IDE. It provides you with a set of functions to use in .NET Framework environments. LINK2i creates a seamless interface between the IBM i and .NET environments. Each request is performed dynamically, in real time and without any data duplication.
LINK2i natively integrates into .NET Framework, .NET Core and latest releases of .NET.
To operate, LINK2i requires:
You also need IBM i session identifiers (username/password) and the IP address of the targeted IBM i. These informations are encrypted into a connection string using GetConnectionString() function.
LINK2i can be deployed according to multiple architectures: thin client, thick client and hybrid cloud.
This architecture is highly flexible and scalable. It suits any use case and is recommended for applications involving many users.
Some use cases examples for thin client architecture:
In thin client architecture (or client-server architecture) the client acces the IBM i objects via a windows server running LINK2i through requests. Develop web applications using ASP.NET (MVC, Webforms) and access them from any device via a web browser.
Client requests are reaching the IBM i objects dynamically and in real time. Windows and .NET are just a pass-through and don't store any data nor IBM i structural information.
This architecture suits small-scale projects (< 10 users, even though there is no limitation) or specific tasks on the IBM i in complement of a client-server architecture. Its simplicity is a key determinant of success for punctual needs and administration tasks.
Some use cases examples for thick client architecture:
In thick client architecture, LINK2i provides a direct acces to the IBM i via .NET applications in Winform mode. It provides you with a quick and easy to set up solution to acces the IBM i from .NET environments.
This architecture is highly flexible and scalable. It suits any use case and is recommended for applications involving many users.
Use cases examples for hybrid cloud architecture:
LINK2i can be implemented as part of an hybrid cloud architecture using containerization technology thanks to its compatibility with .NET Core and .NET 6. These web services are built using LINK2i in .NET Framework environment.