Networking giant Cisco Systems has officially renewed the wireless LAN specialisation of certified Gold Networking Partner BTG - Systems Integration`s Advanced Technology Solutions (ATS) division.
The Cisco Wireless LAN specialisation recognises partners for their abilities in and around the architecting and deployment of wireless networks, and allows them to deploy certified and accredited Cisco solutions to its customers. ATS currently works at a strategic, technical and consulting level with a number of customers looking to adopt wireless network strategies.
"Wireless networking is a burgeoning market as many companies are investing in dual wireless and fixed-line network strategies which make good business sense when looking at overall infrastructure costs. Wireless networks are no longer just a buzzword as many South African companies have embraced the validity of incorporating it into their fixed-line strategies."
"It is with this that the Cisco wireless LAN accreditation is so important to us, as it gives our customers the peace of mind, not only in the technology, but also the skills set which is deploying it," says Patrick Hastings, Divisional Director at BTG Systems Integration ATS.
According to Cisco, the specialisation recognises partners for their knowledge and expertise in building and maintaining end-to-end wireless network infrastructures, throughout buildings and without the constraints or limitations of cable networking architectures.
"Our wireless LAN specialisation forms a quintessential part of our Partner Programme, especially at a time where the need for secure, robust and cost-effective wireless solutions is on the up and up. BTG Systems Integration ATS has proved yet again that they are qualified to sell, install and support customers with their wireless LAN needs," says George Atrash, Channel Manager Sub-Saharan Africa at Cisco.
The wireless LAN specialisation also falls in line with ATS`s current support of the Cisco Structured Wireless-Aware Network (SWAN) methodologies. The Cisco SWAN provides the framework to integrate and extend wired and wireless networks to deliver the lowest possible total cost of ownership for companies deploying wireless LANs (WLANs).
According to Cisco, the SWAN extends "wireless awareness" into important elements of the network infrastructure, providing the same level of security, scalability, reliability, ease of deployment and management for wireless LANs that organisations have come to expect from their wired LANs.
Core to the wireless LAN specialisation, is the Cisco Aironet wireless LAN product set, which is currently rich with applications for enterprise, small as well as medium-sized business customers. The products supported by partners carrying this specialisation includes the Cisco Aironet 1200 Series, Cisco Aironet 1100 Series, Cisco Aironet 350 Series, Cisco Aironet 1400 Series, Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Client Adapters and the Cisco Aironet Antennas and Accessories.
"At BTG we are extremely cautious about our partnerships at a vendor level, as we want to ensure the selected partners support our group quality standards and service levels. Conversely, customers no longer just want technology, they require reliable solutions that are industrial strength and integrate with their own business strategies.
"Furthermore, customers no longer want concerns about the products they install. It is based on the credibility, sound reputation and proven track record. Hence Cisco is such an important partner to us at BTG," ends Hastings.
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BTG Systems Integration is a subsidiary of the multibillion-rand JSE-listed Bytes Technology Group South Africa (Pty) Ltd, a member of BTG Ltd and Altron group. The company provides its clients with world-class software and service offerings based on platforms, processes and methodologies from acknowledged industry leaders.
BTG Systems Integration business units include: Managed Consulting Services (MCS), SAP ERP Practice, Advanced Technology Services, AXAPTA ERP Practice, KRONOS Time and Attendance, Microsoft Solutions, Configured Solutions and Software Designs. Some of our world-class partnerships and products include Business Objects, Microsoft, Enterasys, Centennial, Cisco, HP, Serena, Nexan, See Beyond, Interwoven, Sanrand, Chordiant and See Beyond.
BTG Ltd is divided into international and South African operations. KAGISO has a 27% shareholding in BTG SA (Pty) Ltd. The South African operations include: BTG Systems Integration (the combination of the former Bytes Technology Networks, Bytes Business Solutions, Bytes Software, Spearhead and CS Holdings, Systems Integration Division); Bytes Document Solutions (formerly Xerox SA), Bytes Specialised Solutions (formerly NDS), Bytes Managed Services, Bytes Business Communication Systems (formerly Alcatel Business Systems) and Digital Healthcare Solutions. International comprises: BTG UK operations and our Africa operations based in Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique and Mauritius.
BTG has offices throughout SA, as well as in Africa and the UK.
Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. The South African office was started in late 1994, with a single office in Johannesburg and two members of staff. Growing significantly year-on-year, Cisco is now represented in all major South African centres by local offices and/or partner organisations.
The South African team offers support in sales, pre-sales, marketing and promotions as well as a pre-sales help-desk. By breaking the team into these segments, it allows Cisco to focus on the unique requirements of each target market, so that it can ensure it is providing its individual customers with products and services that meet their needs.
For more information about Cisco Systems, please visit http://www.cisco.com.
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