F5 Networks on channel ramp up drive

Bangalore

September 20th, 2007

F5 Networks wants to ramp up its channel network in India. Currently working
with 400 odd partners globally who include value added distributors; F5 has
Transition Systems as their value added distribution partner in India.
Commenting on the proposed revamp of the channel structure, Pranay Jhaveri,
Sales Director, F5, India said, "We are focusing on ramping up our channel
network in India and are looking to appoint four to five strong partners in each
region. We are looking at new sign-ups and are focused on expanding our channel
network base in India."

F5 will assist in creating awareness in the market, recruiting, signing new
contracts and in training partners on how to sell F5 products and services. It
plans to provide requisite support that its partners may require in terms of
training in using, installing and supporting its products and services as well
as give them sales and pre-sales assistance.

Talking of potential partner sign-ups he said, "The main criteria that
we would look for in potential channel partners is the commitment they have
ready to share with us in terms of resources and their willingness in invest in
F5 products and services. Besides this, the reach that potential partners have
in the market would be an added advantage."

In order to convey the above message and also begin work on its channel
expansion, F5 conducted a national partner summit in Bangalore on the 23rd and
24th of August. The main focus of the summit was to spread awareness about F5
and its technologies and also speak about the ramping up of its partner network
in India. Partners attended the summit from the northern, southern and western
regions of the country. "We wanted to meet with the existing as well as
prospective partners and invite them to the F5 community," said Jhaveri of
the event.

"As part of our channel strategy we have new incentive programs every
quarter to motivate as well as to compensate our partners. We also have
certification programs such as F5's Certified Product Consultant, which is for
sales and pre-sale requirement and F5's Certified Systems Engineer, which is for
people working hands-on with F5 products," he added.

Currently the focus for F5 is the medium and large markets and the company
would consider SMB as the right market for the SSL and VPN segment and not so
much for the application delivery market, indicated Jhaveri. "Our focus
would depend on the reach our partners have. Our objective is to create
awareness and go ahead to support all market segments our partners are present
in. This includes the metros as well as tier two cities," he said.