News Release

Cisco Systems strengthens presence in India

100 per cent rise in Cisco Authorized Resellers in India - Numbe r of Resellers rise to
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May 09, 2001



NEW DELHI, India -- 9 May 2001 -- Cisco Systems, Inc., the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, today announced a 100 per cent increase in the number of Cisco Authorized Reseller's in India to 1,200 from the existing 600 from last year. This includes an increase in the number of Premier Partners from 60 to 80.

Manoj Chugh, President (India & SAARC), Cisco Systems said: "Cisco's business in India has been growing at three figure growth rates over the past year. Our strategy to manage and sustain this growth has been to consistently grow our business network across the country and focus on small and medium businesses. This segment has proven to be the fastest growing line of business for Cisco in India and we are confident that the expansion of our partner network will only further fuel our growth."

He further added, " Cisco's focus to expand into the secondary and tier 2 markets in India is a part of our commitment to grow the Indian networking market. Last year, all estimates revealed that more and more Indian's were expected to connect into the global Internet Revolution. Only Cisco, given its position of market dominance in the space, could have met the burgeoning potential for networking equipment in India. We, therefore, invested heavily into expanding the breadth and quality of our Channel network – to best meet this expected demand."

All certified Cisco Channel Partners meet strict standards for product knowledge, technical ability, and customer support. Cisco Partners have access to Cisco products and solutions through the company's wholesale distribution network. Premier, Silver and Gold Partners have completed progressively rigorous requirements for training, staffing, and support capabilities. With a Cisco Certified Partner, the customers can be sure that they will receive the most appropriate networking solution—installed, configured, and supported to meet the their unique needs.

Speaking about the Cisco Channel Partner Program, B Ashok, Channels Manager, Cisco India said, "Every Cisco Authorized Reseller is backed by years of experience and commitment to customer satisfaction. Cisco invests in its reseller's success and helps them build their own business. Cisco organizes programs such as the Cisco University Program, which is a 'hands-on' workshop ranging from two days to two weeks, on various Cisco solutions. Further, every Reseller has access to the Cisco Partner's intranet ecosystem called the Cisco Connection Online (CCO). The CCO provides updated and unrestricted information on the entire range of Cisco products & solutions and provides skill-building and skill-enhancing opportunities through Cisco's e-learning initiatives."

The Cisco Premier certification level is designed to recognize and reward the resellers with credibility in the marketplace. Premier Certified Partners achieve the first Cisco certification level by completing sales and technical training, and meeting other base requirements such as having a certain number of Cisco Certified engineers working for them and meeting the stringent support requirements outlined by Cisco.

About Cisco Systems

Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. Cisco news and information are available at www.cisco.com.

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