ADT Authorized as Cisco PhySec Provider

Two of the biggest names in security - Cisco and ADT Security Services - linked arms this week as ADT Security Services announced it had been approved as a Physical Security Authorized Technology Provider (ATP) from Cisco.

The authorization recognizes that ADT Security Services has proven its experience in physical security systems installation, design and service, according to Nick Samanich, director of commercial strategic products for ADT Security Services. Beyond demonstrating a high level of integration and installation experience, ADT had to "establish a range of job roles which are key to the life-cycle management of complex installations."

"We also had to undertake a skills certification on core Cisco networking technology as well as Cisco's physical security offerings," Samanich said. "In addition, we established a lab for end-user demonstrations, development and customer fault replications."

The PhySec ATP designation is a relatively new designation from Cisco, and serves as a stamp-of-approval to IT and security departments who have previous experience with Cisco solutions that the integrators are compatible with Cisco's methodology and knowledgeable on delivering services that involve common Cisco networking protocols and devices.

"The Physical Security ATP program in particular will help ensure Cisco's end users can employ advanced physical security solutions and services from a proven and experienced Cisco channel partner," said Edison Peres, vice president and chief go-to-market officer for Worldwide Channels at Cisco, in announcing the ADT and Cisco tie-in.

For integration service providers like ADT, explained Samanich, the real benefit is that it leverages access to business leaders who have adopted Cisco. "One of Cisco's real strengths is that they are a trusted partner and networking provider for many top businesses."