Bahrain-based Hilal Computers, a leading provider of computer hardware and software systems integration and solutions, has been awarded Gold ChannelConnect Partner status by Websense, the US-based global web security firm.

Hilal Computers achieved the upgrade from Silver ChannelConnect Partner four months ahead of schedule by meeting key performance and capabilities criteria as required under the Websense ChannelConnect Global Partner programme.

These criteria include demonstrating a commitment to commercial success and technical competence, and balancing ambitious growth with consistent high-quality delivery.

As a Gold ChannelConnect Partner, Hilal Computers will access world-class technical support, sales enablement and marketing tools and training and education resources provided by Websense.

"Hilal Computers aims to leverage Websense partner support to grow web security software sales revenues in the kingdom," said Hilal Computers general manager Hardy Koshy.

"Hilal Computers is confident it exceeds Websense's challenging partner criteria," he added.

"This well-deserved upgrade was achieved by virtue of Hilal Computers' commitment to meeting Gold Partner criteria," said Websense Middle East account manager Muralidharan Vellat.

"We look forward to working with Hilal Computers to create opportunities for revenue growth and maximised profitability in the Gulf."

"One of the key drivers for our IT business is integrated solutions and with the dynamic growth of web-based services, our partnership with Websense is perfectly timed to meet increasing demand," added Al Hilal Group general manager Geoffrey Milne.-TradeArabia News Service