System shutdown refers to stopping the
computer's software, operating system, and other programs.
(Stopping system activity makes the computer inaccessible to users.)
A system shutdown does not imply turning off power to the computer hardware.
How System Shutdown is Carried Out
Shutdown procedures are performed by the system console command:
CTRL-A=SHUTDOWN
The =SHUTDOWN command logs off all remaining sessions, including the
session logged on at the console. All system processes are stopped
in an orderly manner. Completing all system activity and processing
before shutdown, maintains the integrity of all system tables and directories.
Shutting down the system consists of several steps:
telling users well in advance of a planned shutdown
warning users a few minutes before the shutdown
preventing anyone from starting a new job or session, or
printing new reports
clearing the backlog of reports before the shutdown
answering any console requests
shutting open communication lines
suspending or aborting any jobs, and aborting sessions