Zyxel Launches Updated MSP Partner Programme to Drive Transition to Managed Services Providers
Zyxel, the networking vendor, has unveiled an enhanced version of its MSP partner programme in a bid to encourage more partners to make the shift to managed services providers. The company initially launched its MSP partner programme in the UK and Ireland during the Covid-19 pandemic last year, in response to the changing work landscape. Over the past two years, the programme has experienced significant revenue growth, prompting Zyxel to revamp its managed services track to capitalize on this success.
Rachel Rothwell, Zyxel UK&I regional director, explained that the partner programme refresh was driven by a desire to simplify the programme for customers as they progress through different stages. Additionally, Zyxel has enhanced the benefits offered to MSPs. One notable benefit is the provision of an MSP license, which allows them to manage multiple organizations under a single license. This unique offering eliminates the need for individual licenses for each product, resulting in substantial cost savings.
Rothwell emphasized that the conversations are not limited to existing MSPs but also extend to resellers interested in becoming managed services providers. Zyxel aims to remove as many barriers as possible to facilitate this transition and believes that the introduction of the license has helped break down one such barrier.
The trend of vendors launching dedicated MSP routes is gaining traction in the channel. Netskope recently introduced its managed services provider programme to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity managed services. The company actively encourages its traditional resellers to expand their portfolios by incorporating managed services. Similarly, Riverbed announced its new MSP-targeted programme in May, while Pure Storage is ramping up its pivot to managed services.
Zyxel’s MSP programme equips partners with training in its cloud-based Nebula network monitoring and management platform. When asked about the importance of traditional resellers embracing managed services, Rothwell stated that it is a necessity. With the increasing adoption of cloud technology, especially in the networking industry, managed services make it easier for resellers to offer their services. It provides them with the necessary tools and requires minimal investment, allowing them to optimize their staff resources. Rothwell believes that resellers should and, in fact, must adopt this type of MSP platform.
Overall, Zyxel’s updated MSP partner programme aims to facilitate the transition to managed services providers by simplifying the process and offering valuable benefits to partners. The company joins other vendors in recognizing the importance of managed services and actively supporting resellers in expanding their service offerings.