SAN JOSE, Calif., May 5, 2009 - Cisco today announced a major revision of the CCIE® Routing and Switching (R&S) certification to meet the increasing challenges of enterprise networks evolving in size, scope and complexity. CCIE R&S is supported exclusively by Cisco authorized training and Cisco Learning Partners through the Cisco® 360 Learning Program. The CCIE R&S revisions add significant changes in the Cisco laboratory-testing format to include hands-on troubleshooting while integrating lab exercises that demonstrate on the job skills and knowledge to enable networking engineers to perform at the expert level.

CCIE R&S certification:

• CCIE R&S 4.0 certification standards align more fully to the role of enterprise network experts to assist with speeding time-to-value for network investments and maximizing network productivity.
• The CCIE R&S updates reflect the role of the expert in evaluating network changes; the growing use of IPv6 multicast, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) and virtual private networks (VPNs) in the enterprise and the updating of lab equipment. Advances in testing include assessment of hands-on troubleshooting skills and the addition of scenario-based questions in the written examination.
• The revised CCIE R&S v4.0 exams are scheduled for release on Oct. 18, 2009 and will immediately thereafter replace the currently available v3.0 exams.

Cisco 360 Learning Program:

• Updates to the Cisco 360 Learning Program for CCIE R&S certification, being delivered in May 2009, will be fully aligned to the CCIE R&S certification standards.
• New materials include additional self-paced lessons on MPLS and troubleshooting, enhanced coverage of those topics in the instructor-led workshops, an updated practice lab workbook for self-paced practice, and new performance assessments that gauge skill level and offer mentoring feedback.
• CCIE Assessor, Cisco's original CCIE R&S practice lab will be retired on June 5, 2009, and replaced with Cisco 360 Learning Program Performance Assessments.
• Cisco 360 Learning Program for CCIE R&S certification is the only expert training program currently covering the new certification standards and the only Cisco authorized learning program at the expert level.
• There are more than 20 components of the Cisco 360 Learning Program for CCIE Routing and Switching, which can now be purchased through authorized Cisco 360 Learning Partners.

Key Facts/Highlights:

• CCIE-level skills create a foundation for higher compensation and better professional opportunities.
• The average salary of a CCIE in the United States is $120,330 (Certification Magazine, salary survey, December 2008).
• Information compiled by PayScale.com found the salary premium of a network engineer with a CCIE certification to be 20 percent higher than a network engineer with 10 to 19 years of experience without a CCIE certification (US $71,983 vs. US $84,533).
• Enterprises that invest in certification have a 15 percent improvement in customer satisfaction ratings according to IDC*.

Supporting Quotes:

• "As the network carries more essential services and business applications, there is a sharp demand for expert engineers who can accurately and quickly anticipate, diagnose and resolve complex network issues," said Jeanne Beliveau Dunn, general manager, Learning@Cisco. "To meet this critical market need, networking engineers must prepare for the rapid changes occurring in network infrastructure. The enhanced CCIE Routing and Switching Exams and Cisco 360 Learning Program provide sophisticated skills education and requisite certification to support today's advanced networks."
• "With the growth of network-based services such as voice and video, the role of a network engineering expert has expanded," said Alexei Monastyrni, CCIE 17234, senior systems engineer, Orc Software, AB. "The new CCIE R&S certification standards represent the full range of skills required in an enterprise network and should help employers identify individuals with the greatest potential for success. Coming changes will also help to ensure the integrity of this expert-level certification."