Networks First develops first reseller focused analytics API for Cisco Smart Services

Networks First, the managed network specialist, has launched the first analytical API for Cisco Smart Services specifically for the reseller market. Using Networks First's API layer and Cisco Smart Services, resellers can obtain an instant, audited inventory report of their customers' network assets. The reports identify out of contract and end of life devices, reducing end user downtime and providing the reseller with qualified revenue opportunities.

Cisco Smart Services delivers health monitoring of networks and proactively identities security vulnerabilities, using the built in features of the Cisco devices. Networks First is one of only a handful of Cisco partners globally to develop an API interface for Cisco Smart Services, which analyses the information and provides dashboard style reporting.

Networks First partners who choose Cisco Smart Services can now monitor their customer's networks proactively, providing information to their end users about devices that may cause downtime or loss of productivity before it occurs. The Networks First tool also provides accurate inventory list and can identify devices that do not appear on the provider's original contract by collecting network data, comparing it to the Cisco database and analysing it via Network First's Network Operations Centre (NOC).

Designed for partners managing medium to large networks, the Networks First Cisco Smart Services solution is most suited to networks with over 1000 users.

Daljit Paul, Head of Services at Networks First commented: "Large networks are difficult to manage, additional devices are added 'off plan' and we find that our partners need a totally accurate view, because ailing and unsuitable additions make for unhappy users. Cisco Smart Services presents our partners with incredibly useful data, we've added an extra layer to ensure maximum revenue opportunities are really clear."

"We're the only channel centric Cisco partner to be offering this additional API on top of the Smart Services tools, and we're speaking directly to our own partner community about its benefits to help them increase their foothold with their larger end-user base," Paul concluded.