SUNNYVALE, Calif., Mar. 20, 2006- Fortinet - the pioneer and market leader of Unified Threat Management and only provider of ASIC-accelerated, network-based multi-threat security systems for real-time network protection- today was recognized by CMP Media's VABusiness magazine as one of North America's top information technology vendors in terms of the partnership programs it offers to solution providers that sell its products and services to end users.

The award is given annually to a select group of vendors whose channel programs have demonstrated outstanding commitment to their partners. Fortinet was named for its dedication to and strength of the programs it offers to IT solution integrators, resellers and consultants that sell its portfolio of market-leading multi-threat security systems and services to end users.

"We applaud vendors like Fortinet for demonstrating best practices and for the leadership roles they have achieved within the IT distribution channel," said Lawrence M. Walsh, editor of VABusiness.

"With 100 percent of our sales going through the channel, Fortinet greatly values our partners and recognizes they are instrumental to our success as a leading security vendor," said Chris Andrews, Fortinet's vice president of Americas. "Being recognized as a 'Five-Star Partner' is a testament to Fortinet's strong partner network and high-quality programs. We're honored to receive this prestigious designation from VABusiness magazine."

The FortiPartner program is designed to deliver a wealth of resources designed to extend sales reach and profitability through a variety of key ingredients such as outstanding profit margin, technology leadership, joint marketing, sales tools, communication, education and training, and much more.

More information can be found in VABusiness' 12th annual Partner Programs Guide, which appears in the publication's March 20, 2006, issue and can be accessed online at:http://www.varbusiness.com/sections/main/2006ppg.jhtml;jsessionid=1GIMQNKTCFYVMQSNDBOCKHSCJUMEKJVN.