SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Network Appliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:NTAP) today announced it is a recipient of a 2007 Rising Star Award, presented by the Global Technology Distribution Council (GTDC) in recognition of the IT industry¡¯s fastest-growing manufacturers doing business with GTDC member distributors. The GTDC, whose member distributors represent more than $100 billion in annual sales, created the Rising Star Awards last year in response to the success companies such as NetApp are having in partnership with IT distributors. The winners are selected based on U.S. revenue growth over the past year, as reported by industry research organization The NPD Group in its Distributor Track® service. GTDC distributor members provide products and services to solution providers and resellers supporting end users of all sizes, including small and medium businesses.

¡°The value proposition of distributors has never been more pronounced, especially considering a sustained industry emphasis on channel services, supply chain efficiency, and cost management,¡± said Tim Curran, CEO of the GTDC. ¡°The performance of NetApp not only attests to the quality of NetApp® storage systems, but also exemplifies the pivotal role of distributors for company success.¡±

¡°At NetApp we have focused on building a partner program based on long-term partnerships, and our distribution partners play a key role in driving our success,¡± said Leonard Iventosch, vice president of Global Channels at NetApp. ¡°This recognition validates our VIP Program and the channel partners who have chosen NetApp as their strategic partner. The GTDC is a premier organization recognized for its leadership role in the industry, and this award means a great deal to NetApp and our partner community.¡±