Telstra achieves APAC first with Palo Alto Networks diamond status

Telstra has achieved the highest level of Diamond Partner Status in Palo Alto Networks' NextWave Partner Program, it was announced today.

Telstra is the first channel partner in Asia Pacific to achieve the status. The Australian telecommunications firm became a Palo Alto Networks partner in Australia in 2012.

The status is only awarded to partners who have undergone a comprehensive evaluation of technical competence, achieved certain revenue requirements, and established comprehensive product and service offerings, the enterprise security firm explains.

Ron Myers, vice president of worldwide channels for Palo Alto Networks, says Telstra has been instrumental in successfully bringing Palo Alto Networks offerings to market in Australia, especially with large enterprise customers.

"Palo Alto Networks is delighted to congratulate Telstra on its new Diamond Partner status, making them the first partner in Asia Pacific to receive this recognition," he says.

"Over the years, Telstra has demonstrated a level of commitment and excellence to expanding the Palo Alto Networks footprint that makes them a key partner for us not only in Australia, but also in the Asia Pacific region.

Telstra currently has over 65 certified professionals ranging from sales-certified staff to security experts who have achieved the highest technical certifications from Palo Alto Networks.

Euan Prentice, services business development director at Telstra, says, "Palo Alto Networks has pioneered next-generation security with an innovative platform that enables our clients to secure their networks and safely enable their increasingly complex applications.

"Our momentum with Palo Alto Networks has been truly remarkable in the three years that we have collaborated and we look forward to continued expansion of our business together on the back of this unique recognition."

Myers adds, "We look forward to strengthening this strategic relationship with Telstra and continuing to provide organisations in the region a highly unique breach prevention platform.