Partner Excellence
What is a Cisco Preferred Partner?
The highest designation in the Cisco 360 Partner Program, recognising partners who deliver exceptional value across the customer lifecycle.
Understanding the Designation
A New Standard of Excellence
Under the Cisco 360 Partner Program, Cisco Preferred Partner is the premier designation that recognises partners who have demonstrated excellence across Cisco's Partner Value Index.
Unlike the previous tiered system (Gold, Premier, Select), Preferred Partner status is earned for each portfolio independently. This means a partner can be recognised as a "Cisco Preferred Security Partner" or "Cisco Preferred Networking Partner" based on their specific expertise.
This portfolio-specific approach ensures customers can identify partners with proven capabilities in their specific area of need.
Partner Designations
Cisco Preferred Partner
Top-tier partners who achieve high scores on the Partner Value Index with demonstrated excellence in customer outcomes.
Portfolio Partner
Partners in the Cisco 360 ecosystem building capabilities and working towards Preferred Partner status.
Customer Advantages
Why Preferred Partner Status Matters
Choosing a Cisco Preferred Partner provides tangible benefits for your organisation.
Verified Excellence
Preferred Partners have been rigorously evaluated across Cisco's Partner Value Index, ensuring proven capabilities and track record.
Advanced Training
Preferred Partners receive priority access to Cisco U. training, certifications, and the latest technology enablement resources.
Lifecycle Support
From initial design through deployment and ongoing optimisation, Preferred Partners deliver value at every stage of your journey.
Specialised Expertise
Access to next-generation specialisations in areas like Secure AI Infrastructure and Secure Networking, available exclusively to Preferred Partners.
Customer Success Focus
Preferred Partners are measured on customer outcomes, not just sales, ensuring your success is their priority.
Local Presence
Australian Preferred Partners like Data#3 offer local expertise, support, and understanding of regional requirements.
Australia's Leading Partner
Data#3: Your Cisco Preferred Partner
With 25+ years of partnership, multiple 2025 Cisco Partner awards, and a proven history of Gold and Master-level specialisations, Data#3 is positioned to achieve Preferred Partner status across multiple Cisco portfolios.
Ready to Work with a Preferred Partner?
Experience the difference that a Cisco Preferred Partner can make for your organisation's technology journey.