SAN JOSE, Calif., November 15, 2004 - As part of a continuing effort to help customers identify, prevent and adapt to network security threats, Cisco Systems, Inc. today unveiled two new channel partner programs designed to recognize and reward partners supporting the Cisco® security strategy. The new channel programs include a new security-based Opportunity Incentive Program (OIP) offer, the Cisco IP Network Defender Program, and a small and medium-sized business (SMB)-focused security specialization called the Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express Specialization.

"Cisco clearly has a proactive security channel strategy that includes providing incentives and recognition for those channel partners, such as ourselves, committed to a security practice," said Daniel Phoenix, vice president of Distributed Applications Technologies, an application service provider focused on security and IP telephony solutions and services for education, healthcare and SMB customers. "The new programs demonstrate Cisco's focus in helping partners experience financial success and competitive differentiation in the security market."

"When it comes to networking, our customers' top concern is security. This represents a significant growth opportunity for our channel partners," said Edison Peres, vice president of Advanced and Core Technologies, Worldwide Channels at Cisco. "Secure networks serve as the catalyst for our customers to, expand their networks, deploy new applications and invest in new technologies. The IP Network Defender program and the Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express Specialization reinforce our commitment to working with our channel partners to optimize this growing market."

The Cisco IP Network Defender Program is a part of the broader Cisco Opportunity Incentive Program that rewards and protects specialized channel partners for developing new business opportunities. Extending this program into the security market, the Cisco IP Network Defender Program is a security incentive program that offers Cisco security specialized channel partners additional savings on comprehensive Cisco network security solutions as well as special pricing on security bundles. Special leasing programs and learning credits are also added benefits of the IP Network Defender Program.

Available immediately to qualified Cisco channel partners; more information can be found at: http://www.cisco.com/go/partner-ipnd.

The Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express Specialization recognizes channel partners that have the knowledge, expertise and focus on delivering network security solutions that provide both VPN and firewall protection to SMB customers. Cisco channel partners who qualify for the Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express Specialization will be provided with formal training, 10 points toward their company's certification badge and recognition on the Cisco partner locator as a VPN/Firewall Express Specialized Partner.

The Cisco Security VPN/Firewall Express Specialization is a global program; however, specific specialization benefits may vary by region. Also available immediately, more information regarding the specialization can be found at: http://cisco.com/en/US/partners/pr11/pr66/partners_pgm_category_page.html.