LONDON, England, October 11, 2004- Cisco Systems, Inc. today unveiled the Cisco Security Virtual Private Network (VPN)/Firewall Express specialisation, designed for channel partners who sell into small and medium businesses (SMB's) and support Cisco's Self Defending Network strategy, which provides an integrated approach to help customers identify, prevent and adapt to security threats associated with their network. The new express specialisation is designed to help channel partners grow revenue and differentiate themselves from competitors.

"The SMB market represents significant growth opportunities for Cisco, and our partners play a critical role in helping us succeed in this space, especially as more than 90% of all our business goes through the channel," said Luca Marinelli, Managing Director, Channels, EMEA for Cisco. "The introduction of the Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express specialisation is the third to be adapted for the SMB market. We understand that channel partners who sell into the SMB space have different needs and we are focused on creating programs to help them be successful."

The Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express specialisation complements the Cisco security strategy by recognising channel partners with the knowledge and expertise to deliver a network security solution that integrates both VPN and firewall protection. The express specialisation focuses on single-site, and limited site, entry-level network security opportunities.

Program Benefits

Cisco channel partners who qualify for the Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express specialisation will be provided with formal training, 10 points toward their company's certification badge and recognition on the Cisco Partner Locator as a Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express specialised partner.

Program Requirements

The Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express takes advantage of the current Cisco security specialisations and builds on existing Cisco course work, exams and certifications. Channel partners can also use this as a first step toward attaining the benefits that comes with the more advanced Cisco security specializations available to eligible security channel partners. Expertise in deploying and supporting Cisco PIX and VPN technology is required for this specialisation. Availability

The Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express specialisation is available immediately to Cisco security channel partners. For information about program requirements, visit: http://cisco.com/en/US/partners/pr11/pr66/security_express/partners_pgm_concept_home.shtml.