The first ever on-demand, hands-on training program for the server virtualization industry is launched by Citrix to train its worldwide channel partners.

Toolwire, a leading innovator of experiential distance learning solutions announces their agreement with Citrix Systems, Inc. to develop and deliver an on-demand lab environment to train Citrix worldwide channel partners.
When Citrix acquired XenSource, the company's global ecosystem of partners and resellers needed to become competent on the newly acquired Citrix XenServer virtualization technology in a compressed timeframe. The training had to be cost effective and available in an on-demand fashion so it could be accessed by partners anytime, from anywhere without having to take time out of the field.

"Working with Toolwire to develop and deliver an experiential training solution to meet our Citrix XenServer global training objectives has enabled us to cost effectively extend our training footprint," said Julieann Scalisi, Managing Director of Education for Citrix Systems. "We see on-demand, hands-on training as a value add to our partners and a differentiator that will contribute to an increase in our global virtualization market share."

Toolwire was chosen to participate in the Citrix Summit 2008 worldwide partner event last week to demonstrate this innovative learning technology to over 3,300 attendees. The program developed for Citrix utilizes Toolwire's unique Enterprise Live Labs OnDemand (ELO) solution. Authorized users sign into a dedicated Citrix Virtual Lab environment on the Toolwire platform, which provides hosting and delivery of the Citrix XenServer virtualization software and access to hands-on Live Labs for the XenServer product.

Integrating Citrix XenServer within its platform, Toolwire provides each user with the ability to access physical servers for the labs focusing on a range of technical topics. For instance, users have the ability to install and configure Citrix XenServer components on a physical server as well as on a virtual machine image, as needed.

Additionally, Toolwire created a Citrix XenServer Sandbox Environment for users to return to after the initial training so they may access the same capabilities to refresh, reinforce, explore and practice critical XenServer learning objectives. Upon achieving technical certification, Citrix will be providing their certified partners with access to this environment for a limited time.

Citrix partners and resellers benefit from:

• A reduction in training expenditures associated with site set-up of physical lab hardware.
• Increased global reach and enablement, reducing the time-to-market and providing a competitive edge.
• The elimination of travel and associated expenses of down-time and lost opportunities characteristic of traditional training.

"Toolwire is proud to have been selected by Citrix for the delivery of this critical training program," said John Valencia, President and CEO of Toolwire. "Virtualization is rapidly becoming a key technology for IT organizations worldwide. This innovative learning initiative will enable Citrix employees, partners and end user customers to gain access to the learning environment where and when they need it so that they can acquire the skills required to accelerate the global adoption of Citrix XenServer."