AIX is built to run on IBM Power Systems, and to fully exploit the new technologies introduced with each generation. Below you’ll find the recommended levels for each version and technology level, but also consider what hardware compatibility mode you’ll be able to run in with each version. You’ll always get the best performance and efficiency on the latest generation’s native mode.
| System | AIX 5.3 | AIX 6.1 | AIX 7.1 | AIX 7.2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POWER81 | X 2,3 | X | X | X |
| POWER7 | X | X | X | |
| POWER6 | X | X | ||
| POWER5 | X | X | ||
| POWER4 | X | X |
1. AIX is not supported on POWER8 L or LC models.
2. AIX 5.3 requires full I/O virtualization on POWER8.
3. 7.1 Versioned WPARs are an option to run AIX 5.2 and AIX 5.3 environments on POWER8.
Technical Blog for System Administrator 