Will Akamai Still Target SMBs Through Channel Partners After the Linode Purchase?

Berk says yes.

“We want to make sure as we mature these programs, that we continue to support the [SMB] customer base that’s helped us get here,” he says.

In the meantime, the Qualified Computing Partner Program can offer some trickle-down benefits to MSPs. As ISVs develop solutions for Akamai’s Connected Cloud, MSPs can bring those to customers’ attention and provision them accordingly.

“If you are part of legacy Linode and you’re an MSP, these are some of the solutions you know are certified on this platform you can offer to this customer base,” Berk said.

Look for more Akamai partner news for MSPs and others later this year, the company tells Channel Futures. In fact, here’s a hint from Berk:

“System integrators are going to be a huge component of Akamai’s success. … You’re going to see a lot of focus from Akamai in 2023 in building a stronger ecosystem of SIs.”