SAN JOSE, Calif., September 23, 2003 - Cisco Systems, Inc.® today announced that the number of Cisco IP telephony certifications issued more than doubled from December 31, 2002 to July 1, 2003.

Significant contributors to the rapid adoption of IP telephony certifications are a rise in global IP telephony implementations and growing confidence in Cisco's high quality IP telephony networking professional training and certifications.

The IP telephony industry grew 60% in 2002 and is expected to continue at an annual growth of at least 40% through 2007, according to industry analysts. As a leading IP telephony provider, Cisco recently announced it has 10,000 IP telephony customers worldwide and delivered over 2 million Cisco IP phones to customers.

"IP telephony is being utilized in an increasing number of businesses across the globe making the need for networking professionals experienced in designing, implementing and maintaining IP telephony networks more necessary than ever," said Rick Stiffler, Senior Manager, Advanced Technologies, Cisco Systems. "Cisco's range of IP telephony certifications gives networking professionals invaluable hands-on expertise using virtual labs and simulations, while providing an integrated curriculum with other Cisco training and certifications to provide a well defined path for expanding their networking skills."

Cisco certifications and training enhance a company's ability to meet technology implementation timelines, budget goals and business objectives, while increasing productivity, competitiveness and organizational performance.

Cisco offers a trio of IP telephony certifications in the areas of design, support and operations:

IP Telephony Design Specialist - This certification encompasses the technical issues related to the design of voice over data networks and focuses on IOS-based and CallManager-based voice network designs, the Cisco methodology for implementing voice over data networks and Deploying Quality of Service.

IP Telephony Support Specialist - A certification meets the increasing market demand for skilled network professionals who can plan, implement and support Cisco's advanced IP telephony network systems.

IP Telephony Operations Specialist - A certification qualifies candidates with the fundamental knowledge and skills to troubleshoot Enterprise CallManager, Unity and IP network developments in addition to Deploying Quality of Service.

Training and Availability

Training may be purchased via Cisco Learning Credits which are redeemable at participating Cisco Learning Partner locations. Authorized Cisco training is available from a global network of Cisco Learning Partners and the Partner E-Learning Connection.

For training and certification information, visit www.cisco.com/go/training.
For Cisco Learning Credits information, visit www.cisco.com/go/learningcredits