C2000 talks up wireless networking

Resellers seen as 'essential' in wireless Lan implementations

Computer 2000 (C2000) is promoting wireless local area networks (Wlans) with a series of seminars across the UK to help resellers and end users better understand the technology.

The campaign is being pushed as a pan-European initiative by the distributor to provide resellers with information about the Wlan offerings of major vendors.

Andy Shepperd, general manager of the networking division at C2000, said: "The seminars are designed to outline the commercial opportunities to resellers by explaining the marketplace, identifying target customers and explaining the resources required by resellers."

The company reported "positive support" for its first road show held at Gleneagles in Scotland last month when more than 40 resellers attended. The company is also holding events in the Midlands on 16 October, Surrey on 18 October and in Dublin later this year.

Shepperd expects sales to increase as a result of the initiative. "We have been overwhelmed with the enthusiasm of the networking reseller community with regard to wireless networking," he said.

In addition to the road shows the distributor is setting up a wireless guide and a dedicated area on its website to inform resellers about the sector.

Bob Farahar, channel sales director for Europe, Middle East & Africa at 3Com, said: "There is a great opportunity out there for resellers selling Wlans, and I think that these seminars are a good idea because C2000 seems to be very knowledgeable. I have seen the company's guide and it is very useful."

3Com is putting a lot of effort into the Wlan product area and has a comprehensive portfolio, he claimed.

Shepperd agreed that the Wlan space offered a huge growth opportunity. "We are seeing the market develop with higher specs and functionality, and this is driven by new mobile working practices," he explained.

"Because no two Wlans are the same, resellers are essential in specifying, designing and installing systems. They are also vital for integrating Wlans with fixed networks," he added.