Fortinet revamps international partner program
The remodelled program includes new certification and re-aligned partner levels.
The vendor said it is designed to help partners build expertise on the full range of its network security products, extend service offerings and expand into new areas of the market.
Fortinet director of international channel, Anne Bourgeois, said trends for mobility, agile infrastructures and Cloud along with the evolution in advanced cyber threats, means organisations increasingly demand high-performance, integrated security solutions and experienced partner support.
"Our new program will support our resellers to increase expertise and leverage our end-to-end network security solutions to better align their services with the needs of these customers, and ultimately boost value," she said.
A new eight level certification program was developed to equip partners with expertise across Fortinet's full scope of integrated solutions. It includes a wide-range of self-paced, instructor-led and practical courses for all technical professionals.
The program is supposed help accelerate partner sales, develop new services and validate advanced skills and experience in line with the evolving cyber security landscape. Fortinet channel sales director for Australia, Genevieve White, said the cybersecurity scene was transforming rapidly, increasing the pressures on partners and technology professionals to understand quite complex concepts and how these integrate into existing infrastructure. "This new certification program is designed with our channel partners in mind, helping educate and validate skills, as well as build a community where information can be shared amongst a like-minded peer group."
The new NSE program incorporates newly created content not covered in FCNSA and FCNSP certifications. Over time it will eventually replace the existing certifications. All Fortinet's online courses are free to existing channel partners. The certification will also give partners exclusive access to benefits such as enhanced escalation and invitations to NSE-only events.
Fortinet has redefined its partner levels in order to provide a status that partners can leverage globally. The new tiered system includes platinum, gold and silver partner certifications. "The contribution of our channel in supporting our growth is paramount," said Bourgeois.
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"This is why we're committed to constantly improving our partner program strategy in order to foster the business opportunities of all our resellers and distributors."
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