Merit Network Launches Internet2 NET+ Regional Partner Program
ANN ARBOR (WWJ) -- Ann Arbor-based Merit Network Inc., the provider of advanced networking services to Michigan's education and nonprofit community, has become a participant in the Internet2 NET+ Regional Partner Program.
Merit Members now have the opportunity to purchase a diverse suite of IT services from leading brands at low pricing. Merit said it is the first research and education network to offer services as part of the Internet2 NET+ Regional Partner Program.
"Merit is grateful for the opportunity to help shape this innovative program as we continue to work with Internet2 to make a broad portfolio of cloud services available to our community at discounted rates," said Merit Network president and CEO Don Welch. "This is a significant undertaking for Merit, and it will deliver considerable benefits for our members."
Through the Internet2 NET+ Regional Partner Program, select Internet2 NET+ Services, which were previously only available at special pricing to Internet2 member institutions, are now available at discounts to Merit members. Eventually, these services will be available to members of other participating networks.
The services support the teaching, learning, research and operational needs of Merit Members.
With NET+ Services, institutions benefit from connections throughout the education and non-profit community for more efficient, effective solutions. Internet2 NET+ Services are identified, evaluated and vetted by Internet2 member institutions. Each service is backed by an advisory group made up of peer institutions that assist with service implementation, troubleshooting and provide ongoing support.
Merit Members interested in purchasing services through the Internet2 NET+ Regional Partner Program should contact a member of the Merit sales team. Send an email to sales@merit.edu or call (734) 527-5785.
Merit Network was founded in 1966 to work on a then-novel project -- connecting the mainframe computers of Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and Wayne State University. It later became Michigan's original Internet service provider. Today, it provides a wide range of connectivity and networking services to Michigan's universities, colleges, K-12 organizations, libraries, state government, healthcare, and other non-profit organizations. More at www.merit.edu
Internet2 consists of more than 250 U.S. universities, 80 leading corporations, 70 affiliate members and government agencies, 39 regional and state education networks and more than 65 national research and education networking partners representing more than 100 countries. Internet2 offices are located in Ann Arbor, Mich.; Emeryville, Calif.; and Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.internet2.edu.