Cisco boosts SMB push with product and finance bonanza

Vendor unveils storage, security and networking wares alongside extension of EasyLease financing scheme

Networking goliath Cisco has boosted its push into the small business
market with a raft of targeted product releases and an extension to its zero per cent financing scheme.

The vendor has unveiled the Cisco 200 Series Smart Switches family of products, with prices starting at $287 (£180). The entry-level managed switch products are designed to enable small business employees to access shared content via a network containing both PCs and mobile devices. Today's announcement forms part of the manufacturer's ongoing plans to "redesign [its] entire small business switching line".

Cisco has also launched the RV220W firewall, which it claims can offer small companies "business-class wireless security". The vendor cited the product's swift performance, gigabit Ethernet functionality and hybrid VPN capabilities as key features.

End users can also enhance security with an optional Cisco ProtectLink web security service. The product retails at $363 and will be available in Europe within two months.

The vendor has also boosted its small business storage clout with the addition of Mozy integrated online backup to the NSS300 Series Smart Storage range of products. Channel partners can provide both a full on-site backup offering or a hybrid solution.

Cisco claims the service will give small businesses increased disaster recovery and business continuity capabilities, while offering VARs valuable new revenue streams. Pricing starts at $145 per year for 25 GB of storage. Smart Storage unit prices begin at $913.

Ian Pennell, co-chair of Cisco's Small Business Council, said: "This is yet another strong proof point in Cisco's ongoing commitment to our small business market adjacency, our partners and our customers."

Cisco Capital also confirmed today that European partners are to benefit from an extension of its EasyLease zero per cent financing offer. Three-year financing packages are to be made available to small businesses.

Kristine Snow, Cisco Capital president, said: "Cisco Capital is opening its doors to small businesses by making credit available and affordable, with straightforward, flexible leasing options, competitive rates and fast credit processing."

Read more about Cisco's financing programme for small business VARs in Monday's issue of CRN.