Cisco Offers New Qualification to Help Organizations Build Internet Solutions

TOKYO, Japan, April 11, 2001 - Cisco Systems, Inc., the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, today announced the Cisco Internet Solutions Specialist, the latest qualification in the Cisco Career Certifications program. The new qualification extends Cisco's long-term commitment to helping organizations harness the power of the Internet by validating a network professional's skills in building Internet business solutions.

"Making effective use of the Internet is a top priority for all business executives - not just the CIO or VP of E-Business", says Sue Bostrom, Senior Vice President of Cisco's Internet Business Solutions Group. "Executives frequently ask Cisco for guidance in how to implement Internet business solutions. We created the Cisco Internet Solutions Specialist qualification to help them find qualified professionals in solutions design and deployment."

The new designation validates skills and knowledge in the four key technology areas of effective solutions planning: Internet business applications, development tools, operating systems, and the underlying networks infrastructure. The experienced Cisco Internet Solutions Specialist is able to analyze customer requirements, engage experts, and lead the development process to create a complete solution. This designation is appropriate for Internet business consultants, network engineers, and Internet applications professionals. Cisco Internet Solutions Specialists will likely be employed by corporate information technology departments, system integrators, and major resellers of network infrastructure and Internet business applications.

Training and Exams

Individuals are required to pass three certification exams to earn the Cisco Internet Solutions Specialist designation. Cisco offers recommended training in multiple formats, including e-learning, to help candidates prepare for the exams. Relevant work experience in the Internet business solutions are is also recommended for prospective candidates.

Preparation for Cisco Internet Solutions Specialist exams is offered worldwide by Cisco Learning Partners, whose instructors are certified by Cisco to provide the recommended training courses in preparation for the required exams. Virtual University Enterprises and Prometric offer Cisco certification exams at locations worldwide.

Please visit our training Web site at www.cisco.com/go/training for more information, including available training and exam times and locations.