Fortinet Updates Channel Partner, Cybersecurity Training Programs; Seeks to Mentor MSSPs and MSPs -

Fortinet has updated its Engage Partner Program while also boosting its cybersecurity training programs, according to two separate announcements from the company. The overall effort includes steps to help partners embrace MSSP and MSP business models.

The updates surface amid the Fortinet Accelerate 2022 conference for partners and customers.

First up, qualified Engage Preferred Services Partners (EPSPs) can now receive access to specialized training and direct assistance from Fortinet experts, the company noted. That way, they can build new cybersecurity skills and improve their existing ones.

Meanwhile, qualified EPSPs also can collaborate with Fortinet Professional Support experts on implementations, the company stated. This allows these partners to find the best ways to bolster their services portfolios and meet customers' expectations.

Encouraging MSP and MSSP Business Models

Along with enhancements to its EPSP program, Fortinet has created more entry points to help technology providers join Engage and adopt an MSSP business model, the company indicated. It provides a free FortiCloud premium license to help Engage partners deliver managed services.

Fortinet also is offering a Cloud Starter Kit and Cloud Enterprise Kit to Engage partners. The kits allow these partners to acquire and implement technology to create online environments they can use to show how Fortinet solutions help customers secure data, applications and end-users in the cloud, the company said.

Furthermore, Fortinet has launched an Enterprise Agreement program for MSPs. The program is designed to provide MSPs with a predictable cost structure and revenue stream and coordinate all assets under their control, the company stated.

Fortinet Bolsters Cybersecurity Training Program

Meanwhile, Fortinet has announced the following enhancements to the Fortinet Training Institute's Network Security Expert (NSE) Certification program:

Updates to NSE level 8 certification to expand access to expert technical training

Creation of the NSE 8 Charter Member designation for individuals who have been NSE level 8 certified since 2016 when the first NSE 8 exam was issued

Using the Ultimate Fabric Challenge (UFC) Global Championship at Accelerate 2022 to showcase its partners' security expertise

Partnering with upskilling platform Degreed to offer its NSE training course to 7 million users

Fortinet also continues to explore opportunities to deliver cybersecurity training to students, the company noted. It currently has more than 400 Authorized Academic Partners in 90 countries and territories.

Previously, Fortinet in September 2021 announced plans to provide cybersecurity skills training to 1 million people over the next five years. It provides cybersecurity skills development programs and free cybersecurity training courses.