The VAR Guy is set to invade McAfee Focus 13 in Las Vegas (Oct. 1-3), which includes the McAfee Security Alliance Partner Summit. What are the big themes partners should track? Here's a preview from our resident blogger…

1. Deal Registration: McAfee launched that service two years ago, and the "enhanced margin" program continues to hum along. Among the recent enhancements: McAfee alerts partners when their deal is expiring — which ensures partners that are busy working on deals don't overlook key deadlines.

2. Tactical vs. Strategic: McAfee insiders say the company has solid technology to help partners win the day-to-day knife fight vs. other security companies. At the same time, McAfee will talk quite a bit about its longer-term vision for partner growth. And that vision leans heavily on integrated services and solutions.

3. Certification Program: It's been around for about five years. The company is evaluating some evolutionary changes to help partners work more easily with McAfee, The VAR Guy has heard.

4. Continuing Education: How can McAfee give partners more flxibility on enablement? Stay tuned for a new framework that allows partners to more easily plan, learn and execute.

5. Profits: Keep an eye on McAfee's endpoint programs and rewards programs. They're about to get more lucrative…

6. Channel Chief Message: Listen for Gavin Struthers to zero in on key themes like accountability, transparency and driving growth (a.k.a. relevancy) with partners.

7. Dining The VAR Guy's Way: Want a good breakfast in Las Vegas outside of the conference? Head to Mr. Mama's — 5580 S. Decatur Blvd. Trust The VAR Guy on this one. Bring your appetite.

Got a news tip about the conference? Post a comment or send The VAR Guy a private tweet: @thevarguy. Also, it's safe to expect updates via McAfee's channel blog, plus regular chatter on Twitter at #MFEPS13.