CHICAGO - Stratosphere Networks, an IT managed service provider, has joined The ASCII Group, a community of MSPs, value-added resellers (VARs), and solution providers in North America. The group gives its members access to numerous resources including training, education, business service discounts, knowledge sharing among peers, and more.

"We're excited to be a part of this community of IT solution providers," said Kevin Rubin, president and COO of Stratosphere Networks. "We're always striving to create strong ties with our peers, and joining ASCII gives us a great opportunity to connect with other businesses in our industry."

ASCII was founded in1984 and is the oldest and largest group of independent VARS, IT solution providers, and integrators worldwide.

"We are delighted to have Stratosphere Networks as part of the ASCII community," said Alan Weinberger, chairman and CEO of The ASCII Group. "Stratosphere's many accolades are evidence of the premier IT services they offer their customers, and their ASCII membership will further enhance their ability to effectively serve their clients."

ASCII membership comes with the following key benefits:

Savings programs: ASCII has volume purchase agreements with top distributors, so members get access to special pricing levels. Additionally, ASCII members can lower their cost of doing business with other programs involving credit card processing rates, business insurance, office supplies, UPS shipping, and more.

Marketing assistance: ASCII members can also enhance their marketing capabilities with programs concerning social media, e-newsletters, and PR.

Advocacy: ASCII can contact vendors and distributors on behalf of its members to quickly and efficiently resolve any issues.

Industry knowledge and professional development: The ASCII-Link list serv - a resource exclusively for members - allows for discussion about vendors, technical and business issues, and other topics.

Professional networking: The ASCII member network allows hundreds of businesses across the country to connect and share knowledge.

Stratosphere Networks, based in Chicago, delivers comprehensive technology services to businesses of all sizes and across all industries. The company's fully staffed Network Operations Center provides full maintenance services and support including business continuity, remote and on-site support, desktop support, ongoing maintenance services, and proactive network monitoring.

For more information about ASCII, visit the community's website.