First, software support helps reduce network downtime. Software support combines Cisco TAC and Cisco.com online tools and resources to help resolve problems rapidly and effectively.

Award-winning technical support is available 24x7 by telephone, fax, e-mail, or Internet. Technical assistance for software application issues is provided by Cisco software application experts with a reputation for being among the most skilled in the industry.

If a Cisco TAC engineer or the Cisco.com Website recommends a software update to resolve a problem, your customer may get a maintenance minor and/or major release quickly and easily as part of their service contract. In most cases they can download their needed release through Cisco.com via the Cisco Software Center, or order the release through the Cisco Product Upgrade Tool (PUT).