F5 signs deal with Access

Firms partner to replicate success enjoyed in the US

Security vendor F5 Networks has inked a deal with Access Distribution, as it seeks to replicate its US partnership success in the UK.

F5 ended its distribution relationship with Norwood Adam late last year amid claims
by Paul Jenkinson, UK channel manager, that the vendor was “stepping away from the distribution business”.

However, F5 and Access have partnered in the US and now plan to test their fortunes in the UK.

“The initial UK reseller reaction is positive and most of our resellers will be interested,” saidDavidKehoe, head of channel development at Access.

Steve Jenkins vice-president EMEAat F5Networks, said: “The goal is to increase our market reach. We play on all verticals so we have to find partners to fit the right spaces.”

Jenkins said F5 has distribution deals with Clarity andAcquit, but that the new deal will not affect these.