Cisco introduces Master Specialization

Building on its commitment to enable its channel partners to align with
changing security market dynamics and customer needs, Cisco Systems unveiled the
Master Security Specialization in India. Master Specialization is a new brand
that represents the highest level of partner specialization and depth of
expertise. Cisco channel partners can achieve the Master Security Specialization
for proven and sophisticated security expertise in the areas of technology
solution integration and lifecycle services. It offers further differentiation,
growth opportunities and economic incentives, including higher value incentive
program rebates as a reward for building sophisticated security capabilities and
for being committed to customer success.

The Indian network security market experienced a healthy growth in 2005 to
reach $116 million, up 70 percent compared to 2004 (Source: Frost &
Sullivan). With the increasing integration of technology into business
processes, companies increasingly see network security as a critical part of
their core business, offering an opportunity to Cisco's channel partners.

“Adding a third tier to our specialization offering allows us to address
the full spectrum of customer requirements and creates opportunities for growth
and differentiation, two critical elements of partner profitability,” said
Pramodh Menon, VP-Channels, Cisco Systems, India and SAARC.

The Master Specialization was created to support the enhanced Channel Partner
Program launched at the Cisco Partner Summit earlier this year. The
award-winning Cisco Channel Partner Program continues to be value-based, with
Cisco Certifications at the gold, silver and premier levels representing
integrated technology skills breadth and Cisco Specializations representing
technology skills depth. As a prerequisite to becoming a Master Security
Specialized Partner, channel partners must first meet the Advanced Security
Specialization requirements.