Avnet Enterprise Solutions Achieves Virtual Private Network Security Services Specialization From Cisco Systems

Business Wire, Nov 19, 2002

Business Editors, High-Tech Writers

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 19, 2002

End-to-End Security Solutions Protect Data Integrity,

Optimize Technology Investment

Avnet Enterprise Solutions, an IT infrastructure architect, today announced it has achieved the Virtual Private Network (VPN) Security Services Specialization from Cisco Systems Inc., recognizing Avnet Enterprise Solutions' ability to plan, design, implement and support Cisco VPN/Security solutions.

The certification from Cisco extends Avnet Enterprise Solutions' ability to design and implement end-to-end infrastructure solutions in a world where businesses are more and more dependent on security technology to protect their corporate data. As a critical component of a business' success, information must be protected with a solid security plan in order to minimize the risk of data loss.

By combining proven technical expertise with project management and professional services, Avnet Enterprise Solutions provides customers with the skills and capabilities needed to optimize their investment in security technology.

"With the continued expansion of the Internet economy, customers are demanding robust security solutions, representing an excellent growth opportunity for our channel partners," said Chuck Robbins, vice president, U.S. Channels for Cisco Systems. "By achieving our VPN/Security Services Specialization, companies like Avnet Enterprise Solutions have the training and knowledge to deliver scalable and reliable network security solutions."

In order to qualify for the Cisco VPN/Security Services Specialization, Avnet Enterprise Solutions had to demonstrate it has individuals who have met specific testing requirements: an account manager, responsible for the sales and customer engagement processes; a sales engineer, responsible for the network planning and design; and a field engineer, responsible for the implementation and support of the specified Cisco solution.

"Avnet Enterprise Solutions continues to expand its technical expertise to support the full-range of infrastructure needs in today's connected environment. Protecting business information with an integrated security plan is a critical factor in minimizing a company's risk to data loss while maximizing the value of their technology investment. Through our Cisco VPN/Security solutions, customers recognize cost savings, advanced security, faster connectivity, scalability, and increased productivity," said Mark Zerbe, president, Avnet Enterprise Solutions. "Our full array of assess, design, implement and management services help customers build faster and more reliable network infrastructures."

About Avnet Enterprise Solutions

Avnet Enterprise Solutions is an IT infrastructure architect specializing in enterprise network, server and storage solutions that power leading business applications. The company leverages its unique suite of technical and financial professional services to minimize risk, maximize flexibility and optimize IT investment. Avnet Enterprise Solutions partners with industry leaders including BMC Software, Cisco Systems, Computer Associates, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Oracle, Tivoli and VERITAS. Headquartered in Tempe, Avnet Enterprise Solutions (www.es.avnet.com) is a division of $2.4 billion Avnet Computer Marketing, an operating group of Avnet Inc. (NYSE: AVT). Avnet Inc. is ranked 161 on the Fortune 500 list and is a global technology marketing and services company with fiscal 2002 sales of $8.9 billion.