Hardware certification
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With ever dropping prices of hardware devices, the market for networking devices and systems is undergoing a kind of change that can be loosely termed as ‘generalization’. Big established enterprises like Cisco, Novell, Sun Microsystems etc., no longer manufacture all the hardware required in the market, instead they ‘license’ or ‘certify’ small hardware players operating out from countries like Taiwan or China.
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[edit] The Certification Process
To obtain certification, the hardware or software has to confirm to a set of protocols and quality standards that are put in place by the original creator of technology. Usually the certification process is done by a “Certification partner”. Certification partners are selected by the original creators of the technology and these partners are given the authority to do the testing and certification process. After a product is found to be compatible, it is labeled as xxx certified where xxx is the name of the original creator of the technology. Vendors use a “label” on the products to advertise the fact of compatibility with the said technology.
The process of certification ensures that the products made by different manufacturers are standardized and are compatible with each other as indicated in hardware or software platform.
[edit] Various certifications
Cisco certification: Cisco is the leader in networking hardware devices and systems. Hardware and software companies use the certification issued by Cisco’s partners to ensure that their ware is compatible with the Cisco standards and protocols.
Sun Certification:This is for Independent Software vendors (ISV) involved in developing applications that are compatible with Java technology. Java was created by Sun Microsystems and is widely used to write enterprise and consumer application solutions.
Novell Certification: The name of the certification is "YES". Yes program involves certification of hardware and software systems that comply with the Novell Netware and others.
Microsoft's certification for Vista: This certification is called "WHQL" Windows Hardware Quality Labs". The dominant position of Windows in the computing world ensured that there are enormous number of applications written and hardware manufactured. This WHQL signifies that the hardware or software works with the Vista operating system.
Real Certification: This certification is given by Real Networks for ensuring compatibility with its media player “Real player”. Mobile computing devices like cell phones and PDAs are equipped with Real player to enable them to play streaming content.
Linux certification programs: Hardware vendors use this certification for their products to ensure compatibility with Linux based systems. [1]
SpectraLink certification: SpectraLink VIEW Certification Program is designed to ensure interoperability for enterprise Wi-Fi based infrastructure products that support NetLink Wireless Telephones.
Altiris Developer Program Certification : Altiris is a leading vendor of IT Service oriented management solutions.
EMC Centera Proven: This certification is a good way to demonstrate that your solution takes full advantage of EMC Centera Platform which can be crucial to sales.
Skype Certification: Skype-certified products satisfy both the Technical Requirements and the Design Guidelines of Skype.
