IBM unveils Power11, a new server generation designed for hybrid cloud, AI workloads, and zero downtime, redefining enterprise IT with unmatched resilience and performance.
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| IBM Power11’s AI integration, zero downtime, and high security redefine enterprise computing, offering a resilient platform built for today’s hybrid cloud and AI workloads. Image: IBM |
Armonk, USA — July 8, 2025
IBM has launched the IBM Power11, the latest generation of its enterprise servers, designed to meet the evolving demands of businesses transitioning into the age of AI and hybrid cloud. Built with significant advancements in processor architecture, hardware, and virtualization software, Power11 provides organizations with the resilience, performance, and scalability required to support critical workloads across industries. The new system is tailored for enterprises looking to leverage both on-premises and cloud deployments, providing seamless integration with IBM Cloud.
As businesses increasingly rely on AI to drive innovation, Power11 offers a robust solution to manage the anticipated surge in AI-driven workloads. IDC forecasts one billion new logical applications by 2028, creating immense pressure on IT systems. In response, IBM has designed Power11 to ensure continuous, always-on operations, with a focus on hybrid cloud flexibility and AI readiness. The system boasts an industry-leading 99.9999% uptime, positioning it as the most resilient server in IBM Power’s history.
For the first time, Power11 will be available in a complete portfolio, including high-end, mid-range, and entry-level servers, as well as IBM Power Virtual Server in IBM Cloud. This availability means businesses now have a fast and reliable path to the cloud for their Power workloads, with IBM Power Virtual Server offering certified integration for RISE with SAP.
A notable feature of Power11 is its ability to deliver zero planned downtime for system maintenance. This allows IT teams to perform critical updates and upgrades without impacting business operations. Powered by autonomous patching and automated workload movement, Power11 helps organizations avoid costly system downtime, enabling continuous availability of critical applications. Additionally, IBM’s AI-powered watsonx tools will further enhance operational efficiency, using generative AI to monitor system health and provide real-time insights into potential risks, particularly in security patch management.
The security capabilities of Power11 are equally impressive. Integrated with IBM Power Cyber Vault, Power11 provides an advanced layer of cyber resiliency. This solution follows the NIST cybersecurity framework, offering proactive protection against cyberattacks such as ransomware, data corruption, and encryption. IBM also employs quantum-safe cryptography to safeguard systems from future threats, ensuring that data remains secure even as the threat landscape evolves.
Power11 also brings AI integration directly into its architecture. With built-in AI inferencing acceleration, Power11 is optimized to handle the most demanding AI workloads. This integration will be further enhanced by the upcoming IBM Spyre Accelerator (expected Q4 2025), a system-on-a-chip designed to provide additional AI capabilities. Coupled with Red Hat OpenShift AI, Power11 is positioned to support large-scale AI operations across hybrid cloud environments, allowing enterprises to build and scale AI-driven solutions with ease.
For developers, Power11 offers a powerful suite of tools to modernize legacy applications. The watsonx Code Assistant for i streamlines the process of extending RPG applications, significantly reducing development time. In fact, developers have reported achieving productivity gains of up to 18 times faster than traditional methods, allowing teams to focus on innovation rather than time-consuming maintenance.
Beyond its performance and security features, Power11 stands out for its energy efficiency. IBM has designed the system to deliver twice the performance per watt compared to comparable x86 servers, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for enterprises. Power11 also introduces an Energy Efficient Mode, which provides up to 28% better server efficiency, ensuring that businesses can reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining high performance.
According to Tom McPherson, GM of Power Systems at IBM, “IBM Power11 is a transformative leap forward for enterprise IT. By combining hybrid cloud, AI integration, and automation, it’s helping businesses accelerate their journey into the future of computing.”
IBM customers have already started to see the advantages of Power11. Jasmine Kaczmarek, VP of Technology at MR Williams, shared, “With Power11, tasks that used to take hours can now be completed in minutes. This productivity boost is exactly what enterprises need to remain competitive in today’s fast-moving market.”
IBM Power11 will be generally available on July 25, 2025, with the IBM Spyre Accelerator set for release in Q4 2025.