When Cisco Systems first introduced its Unified Computing System—a collection of data center products sold as a complete and integrated solution—the networking giant said initial sales would be direct only.

But the game is changing and on Nov. 2 IT networking distributor Westcon Group announced a partnership with Cisco that will enable it to offer Cisco's Unified Computing System through its network of solution provider partners.

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Westcon offers Cisco products through its Comstor Worldwide organization. The distributor says Comstor will deliver the Cisco Unified Computing System solutions to midmarket-oriented Cisco channel partners and support those partners through solutions programs and advanced training opportunities.

"Cisco's UCS is another example of how Cisco is driving opportunity in the channel by introducing disruptive technologies," Bill Corbin, executive vice president, Comstor Worldwide, says in a statement.

"The Unified Computing System, which integrates seamlessly into existing data center environments, has already proven to deliver tangible business benefits while lowering operational costs," Corbin adds. "Comstor Worldwide has the global infrastructure and networking knowledge to fully support Cisco's ambitious undertaking—which we fully expect will result in market opportunities in the virtualization and data center markets."

Cisco executives note that Cisco's distribution partners play an important role in the rollout of the company's virtualization and data center technologies.

"Our mutual channel partners will benefit as Comstor Worldwide aligns its global operational infrastructure and becomes a proactive ambassador of Cisco Unified [Computing] System solutions," Dave O'Callaghan, vice president of distribution, worldwide channels at Cisco, says in a statement.

Comstor Worldwide will introduce programs and services involving Cisco's UCS solution platform in the weeks to come and is currently developing global training centers around the technology, the company says.