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The Difference between Alternate Index and Path in VSAM Dataset

In a VSAM dataset, an Alternate Index is a way to access records randomly using a user-defined key other than the primary key. It provides an additional path for retrieving records based on a secondary key.

On the other hand, a Path in a VSAM dataset is a physical pointer to the Alternate Index. Paths are used to speed up the access to the Alternate Index by maintaining the location of the records in the VSAM dataset.

Therefore, the main difference between an Alternate Index and a Path is that an Alternate Index allows for retrieval of records using a secondary key, while a Path facilitates efficient access to the Alternate Index.

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