SAN JOSE, Calif., November 18, 2003 - Cisco Systems, Inc.® today announced the launch of its Cisco Learning Credits Program throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). The program helps enable EMEA customers to benefit from an increased competitive advantage and faster productivity gains on their network investment by integrating the necessary training at the start of a product or service introduction.

The Cisco Learning Credits Program rollout in EMEA highlights Cisco's commitment to ensuring its customers are able to derive the most productive return on their network investment. The Cisco Learning Credits Program enables customers to buy training at the same time they purchase Cisco hardware, software or services. Cisco Learning Credits also reduce the costs of administering separate budgets, purchase orders and expense reimbursements associated with the purchase of training on an ad hoc basis.

"We are excited to offer our customers the benefits of the Cisco Learning Credit Program," said Paul Salmon, director of systems engineers for Cisco in EMEA. "With the Cisco Learning Credits Program, customers can define their network and training needs concurrently to achieve the knowledge and skills necessary for optimizing productivity and network performance."

A customized Cisco Learning Credits Management Tool is available to EMEA customers to review, redeem and administrate training. The tool provides customers with an up-to-date accounting of which individuals have enrolled in specific programs and helps them identify additional training needs. Each Cisco Learning Credit pays for US$100 of high quality authorized training, delivered by participating Cisco Learning Partners worldwide. Cisco channel partners may purchase Learning Credits for resell and for their own training needs. Cisco Learning Credits are valid for one year from purchase date. Cisco Learning Credits are redeemable for Cisco-based instructor-led training courses, e-learning, labs, simulations and customized education programs.

"The right training, at its best, enhances a company's ability to increase productivity and organizational performance by meeting customers' critical business objectives while providing higher levels of customer service and competitive advantage," said Kevin MacRitchie, vice president, Worldwide Channel Operations at Cisco. "The Cisco Learning Credits Program enables customers to include relevant training at the time of hardware, software or services purchases. Delivering an integrated and powerful comprehensive network solution is key to driving customer satisfaction, a Cisco fundamental focus in how we conduct our business."

For pricing and program information, visit www.cisco.com/go/learningcredits.