Ensim Corporation, the dominant hosting automation provider, announced today that it has been named a Microsoft Certified Partner. This development follows recent advances from Ensim around Windows* 2000, including support in Ensim's ServerXchangeT hosting operations platform and a global initiative with Compaq Computer Corporation to deliver Microsoft Windows 2000 server automation solutions to service providers.

As a new Microsoft Certified Partner, Ensim can significantly extend the number of Microsoft applications that can be deployed through ServerXchange. The Microsoft Certified Partner programme allows provides Ensim with resources for to use the appropriate Microsoft logos for marketing initiatives, and gain access to important resources such as training, technical support and previews early access toof Microsoft products.

"The Microsoft Certified Partner programme will help Ensim empower our hosting provider customers with more tools and applications that can enrich the content of Web sites and expand the number of applications that can be bundled into their service plans," said Rosen Sharma, president and CEO of Ensim. "We anticipate increased revenue potential for Ensim and our customers as a result of today's announcement."

"When Hosting Providers and ISPs are looking to implement a Microsoft technology solution for their hosting business, their best bet is to turn to an expert - a Microsoft Certified Partner," said Rosa Garcia, general manager of the Partner Programs Group at Microsoft. "Microsoft provides its Certified Partners with in-depth access to existing and emerging Microsoft technologies and related training and resources to help ensure that they have the technical intimacy needed to deliver quality solutions. Today, Microsoft recognises Ensim for demonstrating this level of expertise and welcomes it as a new Microsoft Certified Partner."

Hosting providers can use ServerXchange to offer cost-effective, subscription-based services using ServerXchange currently supports Microsoft applications such as the Microsoft Windows 2000 Server, Microsoft Windows 2000 Advanced Server, Microsoft Internet Information Server, Microsoft Frontpage* Microsoft Exchange 2000 Enterprise Server and Microsoft Media Services.

Ensim's ServerXchange, the industry's first hosting operations platform, provides complete management capabilities for service providers and Web hosting providers of all sizes. ServerXchange enables them to easily provision and manage servers, applications and services and customers from a central graphical management console, on multiple operating systems. ServerXchange is designed for providers who are expanding into hosting, building a new data centre, building and managing a reseller channel, creating and expanding plans and services, or developing a high-density hosting operation.