Brocade, a leading provider of networking solutions, has introduced key enhancements to its Alliance Partner Network (APN) program and Global Education offerings to help channel partners capitalize on Ethernet fabric-based technology opportunities.

These partner investments include the introduction of the Virtualized Fabric Partner Specialization and the new Brocade Certified Ethernet Fabric Engineer (BCEFE) certification designed to support partners in the delivery of Ethernet fabric technologies, including the award winning Brocade VDX 6720 Data Center Switch.

The specialization is a technology-centric designation for partners who possess a deep understanding of design, implementation and maintenance of Ethernet fabric architectures, said a top official.

"To receive this specialization, partners must be an Elite partner within the APN program and satisfy a set of requirements, one of which is having BCEFE-certified personnel on staff," explained Barbara Spicek, vice president of Worldwide Channels at Brocade.

As with other Brocade specializations, qualified partners are eligible for program benefits, ranging from pre-sales support and access to proof-of-concept labs, and can apply multiple specializations to their overall rebate to receive greater rewards.

Elite-level reseller partners may also leverage these specializations for participation in the Brocade Value Incentive Programs (VIPs), which are true pay-for-performance programs structured to reward and recognize partners who invest in expanding their personnel expertise and skill sets.

“As part of our Brocade One strategy, we are continually enhancing the APN program with Quality in Partnership elements that provide partners with the necessary tools to help their customers make the transition towards highly virtualized, cloud-optimized network environments without the fear of vendor lock-in,” Spicek noted.

“The addition of the new Virtualized Fabric Partner Specialization and BCEFE Certification provides the educational background, practical know-how and technical validation that partners need to successfully deploy and manage Ethernet fabric-based solutions,” she added.

Recognizing distinct skill set required for design and deployment of Ethernet fabric-based networks, Brocade has developed the BCEFE Certification to directly address the needs of partners who want to distinguish themselves in an increasingly competitive market.

Partners who achieve the BCEFE Certification will receive training and education on a broad set of Ethernet fabric-related topics, including technology theory and concepts, Brocade VDX hardware and product features, installation, configuration, management and troubleshooting, said Spicek.

Open to all Brocade partners and end-user customers, this new certification is an integral requirement for anyone looking to secure the Virtualized Fabric Partner Specialization, she added.

The Brocade APN program includes four distinct partnership levels: Distributor, Elite, Premier and Select. All levels have been designed with specific requirements and benefits to help partners leverage and be rewarded for their networking product knowledge and solution support expertise.-TradeArabia News Service