BT announced today that it has achieved Advanced Technology Provider status for network-hosted storage applications from Cisco Systems Inc. The Cisco Advanced Technology Provider (ATP) program is designed to bring new technologies to market.
The network hosted storage applications ATP designation recognises BT for its commitment to having the core knowledge and skills required to deploy an emerging technology and complementary services, while the market opportunity is being developed.
As a network-hosted storage applications ATP Partner, BT is certified to deliver and support multiprotocol storage networking solutions based around the Cisco MDS 9000 Family of Multilayer Intelligent directors and fabric switches, specifically configured with the VERITAS Storage Foundation for Networks virtualisation software integrated into the Cisco MDS 9000 Advanced Services Module.
Luca Marinelli, Managing Director, EMEA Channels, Cisco Systems Inc, said: "ATP Partners are instrumental in helping Cisco penetrate new growth markets."
"ATP Partners, like BT, are hand selected by Cisco to develop the knowledge and skills that enable them to help ensure the successful deployment or management of new growth technologies."
This signifies that BT has completed rigorous training and knowledge validation requirements for becoming a provider for network hosted storage applications.
Combined with the existing Cisco specialisations that BT has previously achieved, this new ATP designation places BT at the forefront in providing the complete lifecycle of network hosted storage services.
Craig Parker, general manager for Storage, BT Retail, said: "We are delighted that Cisco has recognised our networking strength in bringing its products to market by awarding the Advanced Technology Provider status. We believe it is a reflection of the business value that the BT relationship with Cisco brings to customers.
"The combination of our network storage consultancy and integration skills with Cisco's product set means that we are able to help organisations meet their critical storage challenges."
For more information contact Suzy Christopher at BT on 07885 652235, e-mail: suzanne.christopher@bt.com or
Marc Musgrove at Cisco on 020 8824 6200, e-mail: mmusgrov@cisco.com
Perveen Akhtar at Cisco on 0208 824 4478, email: pakhtar@cisco.com
Alternatively inquiries about this news release can be made to the BT Group Newsroom on its 24-hour number: 020 7356 5369. From outside the UK dial + 44 20 7356 5369.
All news releases can be accessed at our web site: http://www.bt.com/newscentre
