Cisco, VMware Plan Pushes Virtualization Through Channel

Cisco Partner Summit — Building on a shared vision of data center virtualization, Cisco Systems Inc. and VMware Inc. announced Thursday a channel partner acceleration initiative.

Targeting mutual channel partners that are Cisco data center specialized and authorized to resell VMware solutions, the initiative includes a range of new benefits, including solutions training, solution bundles, financial incentives, funding for virtualization assessments, online demo labs, market enablement and financing.

The initiative will help solution providers deliver the Cisco Unified Computing System and VMware vSphere By the end of May 2010, a new bundled solution will be available that includes the Cisco Unified Computing System C250, the Cisco Nexus 1000V distributed virtual software switch and VMware vSphere.

The plan includes joint training on the integrated solution at no cost to channel partners worldwide. All Cisco channel partners can participate in this training and will be able to sell VMware vSphere with no additional VMware certification required.

From May 2010 through July 2010, Cisco DCNI Specialized channel partners in the United States and Canada will be eligible to receive a reimbursement for pre-approved Cisco and VMware virtualization assessments.

Beginning in April 2010, the new Cisco UCS Demo Equipment Program, enabling partners to obtain Cisco UCS and VMware vSphere at discounted prices, will be available for channel partners in the United States. This program will be expanded globally by the end of May 2010.

The initiative also will provide customizable campaign tools, including seminars in a box, ongoing lead generation, and follow-up and qualification campaigns.

Beginning in May 2010, channel partners will have online access to demonstration labs that feature Cisco UCS and VMware vSphere solutions operating over a unified fabric. The online demo labs complement the online training that channel partners will receive.

Financing is available from Cisco for purchases of Cisco UCS with VMware vSphere.