Intel, Red Hat Team To Fuel Linux Growth In Channel

"Aligning of channel partner programs is something we haven't done in the past -- this is a big step for us," said Steve Dallman, general manager of Intel's worldwide channel.

Under the new program, called the Global Channel Acceleration Program, Red Hat will precertify configurations and basic components so that resellers can assemble precertified solutions combining Red Hat's solutions on Intel platforms. The program is aimed to reduce the certification costs and time resellers typically have to invest in preparing solutions for sale.

The free program is available to Intel Channel Partner Premier and Associate Program members.

The partnership for now only applies to servers based on Linux, not desktops, said Ed Boyajian, vice president and general manager of North American sales at Red Hat.