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From now until Tuesday 16th May 2006, Zen is giving you the chance to try any of our Linux hosting packages for just 1p for the first month. Choose from any of our options, from the entry level Bronze right up to the more advanced Platinum and Reseller packages. With no long-term commitment and no ties, there has never been a better time to see how good our hosting really is!
Become a hosting provider
Have you considered the opportunity of becoming an independent hosting provider?
For just 1p for the first month (normal price £39.99), Zen’s Reseller package will give you everything you need to add Web hosting to your portfolio and increase your business revenue.
Simply allocate your Web space, MySQL databases, e-mail accounts etc, determine your price and resell the space to your own customers. It’s as simple as that and the opportunities are unlimited!
The features
All Linux hosting packages come with FREE setup and 1 month contract. You will also receive the intuitive cPanel control panel, multiple MySQL databases, FrontPage extensions, comprehensive scripting (PHP, CGI Bin and Fantastic De Luxe) and detailed Web site statistics.
What now?
To take advantage of this special offer and order a hosting solution for you or your clients, simply place an order through the ZenPartner portal.
For more information about Zen’s Linux hosting packages, visit www.zenwebhosting.com or contact your Account Manager for further details.
Terms and conditions apply
Platinum ZenPartner NCS were proud to recently announce that they have been awarded the coveted Gold Certified Partner status from Microsoft.
Microsoft Gold Certified partners are the elite of Microsoft’s business partners. The certification ensures they have the knowledge, skills and commitment to help customers implement technology solutions that match their exact business needs. A Microsoft Gold Certified Partner has passed the highest level of requirements from Microsoft. The Gold designation means they have demonstrated the most robust, efficient and scalable implementations of Microsoft technologies where the focus is typically on one or more solution specialties.
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| Jeremy Santhouse and Samantha Whitaker of NCS |
NCS’ current competencies include Networking Infrastructure Solutions and OEM Hardware Solutions and they are hoping to achieve both the Licensing and Advanced Network Infrastructure competencies during the coming year.
NCS also hold Microsoft authorisations as an OEM System Builder and Education Reseller.
Zen is providing broadband connections for the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible in Sheffield. The event, which is the most important and long-standing tournament in snooker, will run from the 15th April to the 1st May and is sponsored by 888.com.
The two Office broadband connections provided by Zen will prove essential for the organisation of the event, from an administration level right through to the live Web scores that are posted on the Internet. Staff at the Crucible will be able to keep track of e-mails and updates, allowing for smooth management of the tournament using one of the broadband accounts. This connection will also allow the uploading of files to the Web server, meaning that text files can be converted to live scores for everyone to view on the Web. Zen also provides free static IP addresses with the account to aid management of security policies protecting the server.
Zen’s coverage will also be extended at the championship through the other broadband line, which will be used in the press room at the event. Journalists from around the world who gather at this event will be able to e-mail out news stories and update their Web sites.
These activities all require reliable and consistent connections and the excellent uncontended Zen network ensures that speeds remain stable, steady and to the highest quality. The fact that Zen has a specialist events team to provide short-term connections was one of the reasons World Snooker Ltd turned to them, as well as the award winning reputation of the ISP.
Lee Entwistle, IT Manager, World Snooker Ltd commented: “We needed a reliable connection with high levels of support as we cannot afford inconsistent speeds due to the importance of communication levels at this event. After seeing Zen’s success in the ISPA (Internet Service Providers’ Association) awards, particularly in the Best Business ISP category, I felt assured of their position as a high quality business provider. The short contract term was also a great bonus.”
Iain Johnstone, Sales and Partner Programme Manager, Zen Internet, said: “We are very pleased to be involved in such prestigious events as the World Snooker Championship. We regularly provision broadband at many major events using our specialised events team and this kind of work really helps to reflect our reputation for reliability and quality. Winning three awards at the ISPA’s this year, really highlighted the fact that Zen is on the way to providing the Best ISP service in the UK, with a focus on business critical connections.”
Zen has expanded further on its transatlantic link to New York, by connecting to American ‘peering point’ Switch and Data. Being a customer of Switch and Data means faster access to American sites and more routing links which will benefit Zen customers.
The advancement of the US link is another step in Zen’s continual investment in its network, ensuring it stays ahead to cater for the predicted increase in customer numbers and the advancement of Internet technologies across the UK.
The link that Zen recently created via Southport to New York using a 2.4 Gbps link, has assured that the ISP has a resilient link outside the UK.
This will mean that any problems with the Internet in the UK would be minimal to Zen customers. Now using Switch and Data's PAIX peering platform in the US, Zen can link to any US sites that agree to peer with them at Switch and Data, therefore increasing the potential of the Zen network.
Peering agreements with fellow customers on the Switch and Data PAIX platform have now been set up meaning faster access to US sites. These agreements will prove beneficial to many businesses, and adds credibility to Zen’s promise to focus on business critical solutions.
Iain Johnstone, Sales and Partner Programme Manager, Zen Internet, commented: “Constant advancement of the Zen network is essential and will guarantee that we can become involved in delivering new products and creating capacity ahead of demand. We believe in being technically minded and customer focused and that is why we choose to invest so much into our network, for the good of our customers. This peering agreement with Switch and Data is part of a continual plan of growth and production of consistent quality services as Zen looks to provide the best ISP service in the UK.”
About Switch and Data:
Based in Tampa, Florida, Switch and Data operates the largest footprint of neutral Internet exchange and colocation facilities in North America with 34 data centers in 23 markets serving more than 800 customers. Switch and Data is the largest neutral interconnection and Internet exchange provider in New York City offering interconnection to more than 330 distinct networks with Layer 1 and Layer 2 connectivity between their data centers at 111 8th Avenue and 60 Hudson, allowing customers to focus their equipment investment in one facility while benefiting from the choice of networks and peering participants in both. Switch and Data's PAIX is recognised worldwide as the premier name in peering and Internet exchange services and is home to the largest commercial exchange point in North America. For more information, please visit www.switchanddata.com
The ZenPartner Programme recently introduced a full, detailed welcome pack as a reference point for all partner information.
The pack contains up-to-date information on key topics such as ordering online, faults/support processes, payment and billing, and commission structures with an additional section on resources such as a full training programme. The pack also features the latest price lists for all products and services from Zen available to partners through the ZenPartner Programme and a complete list of contacts.
The pack is updated regularly and updates since last month include updates to the Price List, the Guides and the Products sections. For all the latest information please visit the member’s area on the ZenPartner Web site under Marketing and download the latest version of the pack.
ZenPartner would like to welcome all the new ZenPartners who have recently joined the scheme!
Iain Johnstone, Sales and Partner Programme Manager at Zen Internet commented: “March was a fantastic month for us here in the Partner Programme. There were 20 changes with partners moving up levels in the scheme and we now have over 500 partners on the programme making it a record month! We are delighted to be welcoming so many great new partners to the scheme and look forward to our partnership with them offering the best support and resources in order to exceed their client’s expectations.”
One of the new partners to be welcomed into the scheme this month are Cherry IT (www.cherryit.co.uk). Cherry IT are focused on small businesses, helping them overcome their fears of investing in IT and their future.
Cherry IT is committed to quality. Kenneth Middleton of Cherry IT commented: “As a former service engineer I became tired of the approach of the various employers I had worked for, where money gets in the way of quality of service. I believe quality of service comes first - customers will see that and spread the word.”
He continued: “We chose Zen to be our Internet partner as I have worked for a number of IT companies in the past, each one using a different ISP as a partner and I found Zen to be the most helpful and reliable - somebody actually answers the phone and knows what they are talking about.”
Here at the partner programme we are always looking to help promote our partners (new and existing) both in the ZenPartner newsletter and via press releases that Zen distributes. If you are interested in becoming more involved with promoting your business through the ZenPartner programme please contact your Account Manager or e-mail theeditor@zenpartner.com.
At Zen we consistently investigate the latest technologies and equipment to ensure that our customers get the most out of their broadband service. We are pleased to announce the following additions to Zen’s range of recommended ADSL hardware:
New Routers:
• DrayTek Vigor 2800V
• DrayTek Vigor 2800VG
Please note, the Vigor 2600 range is no longer available.
These business grade routers are the latest additions to the Vigor 2800 range.
Offering all the advantages of the earlier Vigor 2800, including compatibility with ADSL 2 and 2+ technologies, these latest models also incorporate two phone sockets enabling users to take advantage of VoIP technology. The 2800VG brings the further advantage of Super-G wireless connectivity, complete with WEP, WPA and WPA2 Wireless Security & Encryption.
New Wireless Bundles:
• SpeedTouch 585 + 2 x Netgear WG511 PCMCIA Cards
• SpeedTouch 585 + 2 x SpeedTouch 121G USB Adapters
• SpeedTouch 585 + 1 x Netgear WG511 PCMCIA Card & 1 x SpeedTouch 121G USB Adapter
These three great-priced bundles offer complete PC and Laptop wireless connectivity solutions for both Home and Small Business customers wanting to connect to the latest high speed Broadband services.
The SpeedTouch 585 supports multimedia applications such as VoIP and video-conferencing, as well as the latest BBC Multi-cast trial which enables users to watch live TV on the Web. Furthermore, a built-in SPI firewall provides users with the peace of mind of robust network protection alongside any other security software they have on their computers.
As with all recommended broadband hardware from Zen, users can be assured that each router is rigorously tested, ensuring the highest levels of quality and performance. Each one also comes with a two year warranty as standard and receives unlimited support from our experienced technical support team.
For more information on the hardware on offer from Zen and its cost, please check out: www.zenbroadband.co.uk/buyhardware.aspx
Would your business benefit from its own dedicated Web, e-mail or database server?
If the answer is yes but you don’t have the time or specialist expertise needed to select hardware, test and install software, arrange network security and perform essential maintenance, then Zen’s new managed offering could be the answer.
When you choose a managed hosting service from Zen, you will benefit from 24/7 technical support along with a comprehensive Service Level Agreement (SLA) that includes guaranteed response and fault resolution times, service monitoring and guaranteed 100% network uptime. You will also receive managed firewall security, data backup, software updates, performance and usage reports and peace of mind that your Web site really is in the hands of the experts.
Who is it for?
Managed hosting services are perfect for those organisations where shared hosting packages and Virtual Private Servers (VPS) no longer meet their requirements. It also provides the ideal solution for companies wishing to host a large number of smaller sites on a single dedicated server or alternatively large mission critical or high traffic Web sites. Outsourcing of your hosting and IT management services is now more affordable and cost-effective than ever before, even for the smallest of businesses.
Managed hosting in action
Rochdale Online, a long standing ZenPartner, has already enjoyed the first managed hosting solution delivered by Zen. In order to meet Rochdale Online’s specific hardware, software and management requirements, Zen delivered a bespoke solution with the capability of supplying a full range of Web hosting solutions from a single central management facility. This has simplified administration significantly, leaving the company to focus on their day-to-day objectives, i.e. designing and building Web sites. For more information about Rochdale Online’s solution click here
Want to know more?
For more information about Zen’s managed hosting services, visit www.zenwebhosting.com/managed.aspx or contact your Account Manager.
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Full name: Craig Stowell
Age: 35
Postion(s): Partner Account Manager
Length of time with company: 12 months |
THE QUESTIONS
Where are you from originally?
I was born and raised in Manchester.
What were you doing before you joined Zen?
Before I came to Zen, I spent 5 years working for a small independent ISP (Total Web Solutions) as Technical Salesperson, promoting hosting, Web design and broadband services to businesses.
What are your 3 favourite Web sites (clean please)?
Discounting the obvious choices (Amazon, Ebay etc) my recent favourites would be:
www.pitchforkmedia.com – Music news and reviews.
www.pbase.com – Online Photography galleries.
www.chucknorrisfacts.com – Facts. About Chuck.
Which album /single do you have in your stereo?
I’m listening to an album by M83 (a French band) called ‘Before the Dawn Heals Us’ which is excellent and Kubb’s album ‘Mother’ which is also very good.
Which football team do you support?
I’m not a massive footy fan, but would say Man United, as I grew up supporting them.
What is your favourite childhood TV program, and why?
Probably The Adventure Game, which was like an earlier version of The Crystal Maze, but with better tasks, blokes in rubber alien suits, a talking plant. It was good because their just wasn’t anything else like it at the time.
If you could be any one else for a day who would it be and why?
I’d be any ZenPartner in order to experience the fantastic sense of satisfaction, and positive feedback they get from their customers after recommending Zen’s superb services.
Or I would be Brad Pitt, when he was married to Jennifer Aniston…., for obvious reasons.
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What was your best Christmas present?
Last November I got a Digital Camera, but I wouldn’t let my wife wrap it up for Christmas, as I couldn’t wait to start using it. Since then I have developed a really keen interest in photography, so much so that I am already looking to upgrade to a better model (the camera that is, not the wife).
Do you have any bad habits?
Tons. Most of them far too disgusting and embarrassing to share. Drinking milk straight from the bottle is one that my wife always reprimands me for, so if you are ever invited round to my house for a brew you would do well to remember this.
What was your first computer?
A Commodore VIC 20. I pestered and pestered my Mum and Dad into buying it for me, and it cost them £100.00 over 20 years ago (which they could hardly afford at the time), and soon after I got it I realised how rubbish it was and that I should have gone for the Commodore 64 or ZX Spectrum instead.
It sat under my bed, boxed and virtually unused for years and I felt so disillusioned with it and guilty for wasting my parent’s money that I didn’t own another computer until 10 years later.
Then I got an Amiga and that was rubbish too.
Thanks Craig, and that concludes the inspirational interview with this month’s ZenPartner team member.
Next month:
Wayne Moran, Partner Programme Account Executive
The ZenPartner team would like to say congratulations to those partners who have moved up levels in the programme this month meaning an increase in the resources available to them and a move towards a more strategic commitment.
These were:
Gold to Platinum:
RockIT
Silver to Gold:
Abacusonline
Safetynet Solutions
Andreas Menzies
Solsoft
Integral Arm
Simpology
Bronze to Silver:
Access2.co.uk
Crystal Telecom
Myson Consulting
Nornir Ltd
BlackRabbit
IT360 Limited
Networking 2000
X.communications
Liquid software solutions
Soundbyte Response
Telessential Ltd
3Ait
Astrotech
Keep up the Good work!
In April 2005 the ZenPartner Programme underwent a bit of a face lift and the new ZenPartner.com site was launched based on the comments and feedback from you – our Partners. 12-months on and we have come to the end of the first phase of the ongoing development of the Partner Portal so we thought we’d review the changes we’ve made over the last year.
• New Look and improved Navigation – The first change came when we unveiled the ‘new look’ ZenPartner.com site which was the first of the Zen sites to use the single design theme which is now common throughout all Zen’s sites. This theme was designed and developed by Zen Web Solutions and incorporates a powerful CMS (Content Management System) engine that allows the Partner Programme team significant control over the portal’s content, helping to ensure that the information is relevant and up-to-date.
• News, Archive & Newsletter Signup – As you will have noticed, we have improved the way in which we communicate with our Partners by the introduction of our monthly newsletters and regular newsflashes. Anyone who visits the ZenPartner Web site can now sign-up to the newsletter which often features articles from and about our Partners. If you have a news story that you would like to feature in future editions of the ZenPartner Newsletter then please send them to theeditor@zenpartner.com.
• Order Online/Products & Services – The online order process went through quite a dramatic change during this development and has improved significantly to include a shopping cart facility, simplified product selection and more efficient payment options. Whilst this is continually evolving, the basic ordering system has proved so successful that it is being replicated throughout the other Zen Web sites – another ZenPartner Programme success story.
• Application Form – The process of becoming a Partner was streamlined with the introduction of the improved online application form. This means that the process for accepting Partners is much more efficient and we are able to ensure the quality of support that we provide to all Partners.
• ZenPartner Search & ZenPartner Profile Management Admin – As the ZenPartner Programme is a true partnership between Zen Internet and the Partner Channel we have evolved the ZenPartner Search facility to help drive leads back to the Partners. The search facility now includes a keyword search engine and a better search interface that will make it easier for people to find you. It will also be promoted across the other Zen sites and in the order process to increase the number of visitors and enquiries for our Partners.
• Partner specific Knowledgebase – There are always those questions that you never seem to remember the answer to or the answer is always changing, so we have created a knowledgebase for Partner specific questions. This will grow to answer all of your questions and include articles that help and support you. There’s even a form for you to suggest articles and ideas for inclusion.
• Marketing Resources – Getting the Zen message across to your customers is essential when promoting our products and services and this handy section will enable you to download the necessary documentation to help make that task easier. As more and more material becomes available we will add it to this section.
• Training section – Training was introduced as a free resource to Partners just prior to the relaunch in 2005 and has proven to be a very successful addition to the service afforded to the Partners. We have also included a training section within the ZenPartner.com development so that you can book courses online, keep up-to-date with existing and future courses and download any relevant course details.
• Attend an Event – Built into the Training and News & Events pages, this handy application enables you to register and book onto these events through the portal. No need to call or e-mail your interest anymore.
Many of the above links require that you are logged in to your Partner section to access them.
The ZenPartner.com Web site and portal will continue to be developed and evolve in line with the comments, requests and suggestions of our Partners and to help this we have set up an e-mail address for you to use – portalsuggestions@zenpartner.com.
All further developments will be announced in advance either in the ZenPartner Newsletter or special Newsflashes.
Earlier this month Zen announced that we have slashed the prices of .eu domains, to bring them in line with the other domain offerings. The price of the .eu domain with DNS has been reduced from £49 to £24.99 (ex VAT), and the .eu ‘Domain only’ option has been introduced at £14.99 (ex VAT).
The launch of .eu domains has been very successful. There are, however, still many .eu variations available, which means that many customers who could not purchase the .com or .co.uk version of their domain name may have the chance to register the .eu variant.
Iain Johnstone, Sales and Partner Programme Manager at Zen Internet commented: “The .eu domain has become a valuable addition to our domain portfolio. Many customers have already taken the opportunity to register their chosen domain for many reasons including having a pan-European identity, brand protection, and because they could register the exact name that they wanted, rather than having to settle for a derivative. The fact that prices have been reduced will be likely to mean that we will see an even higher uptake of these domains.”
Coupled with Zen’s hosting options, the .eu domain could become the ideal solution for customers wanting the maximum exposure for their high quality but affordable Web site.
For further details please visit www.zenwebhosting.com or contact your Account Manager.
Live Support is Zen Internet's new online facility allowing customers to message the Customer Service and Technical Support teams for help, through the Technical Support Web site at www.zensupport.co.uk.
The service is available between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, and works in a similar manner to Instant Messenger software - however no additional software needs to be installed by the customer. Just click the link, enter your name and a question, and a member of staff will be with you as quickly as possible. The service is ideal for customers with simple questions that require a quick response.
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