Securing a Control File
You can convert a control file to an unreadable format for security purposes by compiling the control file. You can decompile a control file at any time to convert it back to a readable format. Any rule file that is contained in-line in the control file is also compiled and decompiled. Compiling a control file only changes the format of the data in the control file so that it cannot be read. It does not change the content of the control file or the way Enrichment operates.
To compile a control file, specify the run-time arguments explained in the table below in the Enrichment JCL.
| Argument | Description |
|---|---|
| F=filename | Specifies the name of the file or DD in which the compiled or decompiled control file is stored. The default compile DD is DD:COMPCNTL. The default decompile DD is DD:DECNTL. |
| K=key | Specifies a key used to compile or decompile control files. The key can be up to 10 characters and is used to lock or unlock the control file. Any rule included within the control file with the Content tag group is also compiled or decompiled using the key. |
The first time a control file is processed using a specific key, it is compiled. The next time it is run using the same key, it is decompiled. Enrichment can run from the original, compiled, or decompiled control file even if you do not specify a key.