Network security provider Fortinet has announced a comprehensive new technical certification program, dubbed the Network Security Expert (NSE) initiative, that will enable channel partners, customers and security professionals to demonstrate expertise on the full range of Fortinet’s network security product offerings.
“We are pleased to unveil the Fortinet Network Security Expert certification, representing a new industry standard that sets the bar even higher for Fortinet’s partners and customers,” said Joe Sykora, vice president of Americas sales operations and channels at Fortinet. “The new certification program will enable participants to greatly expand upon their knowledge and expertise of Fortinet’s expansive network security portfolio, and prepare them to enter untapped markets. We look forward to the many opportunities ahead.”
The eight-level certification Fortinet NSE certification is designed for all technical professionals interested in independent validation of their network security skills and experience. Open to everyone, including the entire partner community and 190,000+ Fortinet customers, the new program includes a wide range of self-paced and instructo- led courses, as well as practical, experiential exercises that demonstrate mastery of complex network security concepts.
Topics range from survey-level courses at the lower levels to advanced architectural level subject matter at the high levels. The time commitment varies depending upon course level, with the highest levels requiring extensive experience and study. All of Fortinet’s online courses are free to channel partners.
The new NSE program incorporates newly created content not covered in FCNSA and FCNSP certifications, and over time will eventually replace the existing certifications. Fortinet’s current certifications FCNSA and FCNSP will remain in effect for one year following the NSE launch, with complete benefits for participants. After a year, participants will be required to update their certifications according to the terms of the new NSE program.
For channel partners, the NSE program also offers a number of tangible benefits for partners specific to their level, which include enhanced escalation, invitations to NSE-only events and public recognition.
“The launch of Fortinet’s NSE program gives partners like Industry Retail Group (IRG) additional resources to further validate our network security expertise to customers,” said Mike Luzio, CEO & president of IRG. “This kind of industry-wide recognition represents a tangible way to demonstrate industry expertise, which will provide a competitive advantage when approaching new customers for both IRG and Fortinet.”
