backup-and-recovery

Query IBM i backup resources using QSYS2 SQL services.

3|1|Updated Feb 3, 2026

Search Tags:#audit #backup #sql #tape #ibmi #save file #media library

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/ajshedivy/ibmi-agent-skills --skill backup-and-recovery

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: backup-and-recovery
Source: https://github.com/ajshedivy/ibmi-agent-skills/tree/main/skills/backup-and-recovery
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ajshedivy/ibmi-agent-skills --skill backup-and-recovery

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

IBM i backup and recovery data is scattered across objects and devices; this skill provides a unified SQL-based interface to query save file info, object contents, media library information, and tape cartridge status.

Core Features & Use Cases

Save file metadata and contents discovery via QSYS2.SAVE_FILE_INFO
Cross-file searches and object lookup via QSYS2.SAVE_FILE_OBJECTS and DETAILED_INFO
Tape library and cartridge inventory checks via QSYS2.MEDIA_LIBRARY_INFO and QSYS2.TAPE_CARTRIDGE_INFO
Use Case: Perform a backup audit by listing recent save files and verifying retained objects and timing.
Use Case: Locate which save file contains a specific object for restoration

Quick Start

Run the ibmi tool get_save_file_info with a library_filter to list recent save files.

Frequently Asked Questions about backup-and-recovery

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I query IBM i save file information using SQL?▼

Query IBM i save file information using SQL by accessing the QSYS2.SAVE_FILE_INFO view to retrieve save file metadata and QSYS2.SAVE_FILE_OBJECTS to inspect contained objects. Filter by library to audit recent backups and verify retained object retention timing.

What is the best way to find which save file contains a specific object for recovery on IBM i?▼

Locating which save file contains a specific object for IBM i recovery requires querying the QSYS2.SAVE_FILE_OBJECTS table function. This SQL service searches across save file contents to pinpoint the exact file holding the target object needed for restoration.

Can I check tape cartridge and media library status on IBM i using SQL services?▼

You can check tape cartridge and media library status on IBM i using SQL services. Query the QSYS2.MEDIA_LIBRARY_INFO and QSYS2.TAPE_CARTRIDGE_INFO views to inventory tape devices and verify media availability for backup and recovery operations.

How does an IBM i backup audit work with SQL services?▼

An IBM i backup audit with SQL services works by querying QSYS2 views to list recent save files, verifying retained objects, and checking media inventory. It unifies scattered backup data across objects and devices into a single SQL interface for validation.

Do I need special dependencies to run SQL backup queries on IBM i save files?▼

No special dependencies are required to run SQL backup queries on IBM i save files. The skill uses standard QSYS2 views and table functions available on the IBM i platform to query SAVE_FILE_INFO, MEDIA_LIBRARY_INFO, and TAPE_CARTRIDGE_INFO without external tools.