WatchGuard Technologies has been recognized by CRN with a five-star rating in its 2023 Partner Program Guide. This is the seventh consecutive year that WatchGuard has achieved top marks in CRN's definitive directory of the most rewarding partner programs for the IT channel. The ranking is the result of WatchGuard's continued commitment to supporting and empowering its global channel community through the WatchGuardONE partner program.

CRN's annual Partner Program Guide helps service providers at all stages identify the technology vendor partner programs that will best support their business needs. The five-star rating is awarded to companies that go above and beyond in their commitment to nurturing strong, profitable, successful channel partnerships.

"At WatchGuard, our vision is simple," said Michelle Welch, chief marketing officer and senior vice president of business strategy, WatchGuard Technologies. "We believe the future of security is unified and managed, and that effective protection comes from a comprehensive security platform run by dedicated security service providers. This is why we orient our entire business around enabling the channel, and this five-star rating and recognition from CRN is a testament to the successful implementation of our MSP-first approach. Our Unified Security Platform architecture was built to enable MSPs to simplify every aspect of security delivery. The WatchGuardONE program is all about partner profitability, and it's achieved through unsurpassed sales, marketing and technical support."

For the channel partner community, a critical factor when assessing which IT manufacturers, service providers and distributors to team with in building world-class technology solutions is the breadth and depth of the partner programs those companies offer. Strong elements such as financial incentives, sales and marketing assistance, training and certification, technical support and more can set a vendor apart and play a key role in boosting partners' long-term growth.

"In today's world, the need for innovation is greater than ever," said Blaine Raddon, CEO, The Channel Company. "Solution providers seek vendors that can keep pace with their developing business and evolving client needs. CRN's 2023 Partner Program Guide delivers deep insight into the strengths of each program, spotlighting the vendors dedicated to supporting their partner community and pushing positive change throughout the IT channel."

In the 2023 CRN Partner Program Guide, vendors were evaluated based on program requirements and offerings such as partner training and education, pre- and post-sales support, marketing programs and resources, technical support and communication.