SoftLayer Awarded Microsoft Hosting Competency

Web hosting expertise in managing a Windows-based network among the key abilities required.

September 9, 2008, Dallas, TX – SoftLayer has been awarded Microsoft Hosting Competency certification, requiring on-staff Microsoft Certified Technical Professionals, as part of the company’s continuing commitment to set the highest standards in customer service and support.

Microsoft Hosting Competency is a continuous certification that verifies a technical staff possesses proficiency in a variety of Web hosting areas. The certification is offered for technical professionals with more than two years of experience in managing a Windows-based network and requires demonstration of abilities including:
• Planning the environment
• Deploying core infrastructure
• Deploying all related services
• Designing and configuring automated provisioning
• Administering, managing, and optimizing the solutions
• Troubleshooting the environment

“One of SoftLayer’s core advantages will always be our industry-leading customer support. And we pursue any strategic partnership that can help us stay on the leading edge and give our customers the utmost confidence,” said Steve Kinman, SoftLayer Customer Service Manager. “Having Microsoft Hosting Competency gives our team access to the most up-to-date resources, helping us continue to leverage best-in-class methodologies and technical solutions.”

Along with maintaining status as a Microsoft Gold Partner, the highest Microsoft partner level offered, SoftLayer has also earned Microsoft Competencies in the following areas:
• Security Solutions
• Information Worker Solutions
• Network Infrastructure Solutions
• Advanced Infrastructure Solutions
• Security Solutions

About Microsoft Inc.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. See www.microsoft.com for more information.

About SoftLayer Technologies
Headquartered in Plano, Texas, SoftLayer delivers next-generation web hosting and on-demand data center services on a global basis from facilities located in Dallas, TX; Seattle, WA; and Washington, DC. Utilizing proprietary management tools coupled with the industry’s first network-within-a-network topology, the company delivers unprecedented power and control to securely manage IT environments while providing unparalleled scalability. For more information please visit www.softlayer.com or call 866.398.7638.