WASHINGTON, DC - September 30, 2004 - Cisco Systems®, Inc. today announced that it will participate in the October National Cyber Security Awareness Month initiative organized by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA).

Concentrating on home user, small business, education (K-12 and higher education), and child safety online audiences, the public awareness campaign focuses on empowering Americans to improve their computer security by providing practical tips and resources. The National Cyber Security Alliance is a not-for-profit, public-private partnership focused on driving awareness and education.

The October program is structured in four, week-long segments:

• Week One: October 4-10 - Home User
• Week Two: October 11-17 - Small Business
• Week Three: October 18-24 - Education
• Week Four: October 25-31 - Child Safety Online

In joining government agencies, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, consumer advocacy groups, and businesses of all sizes supporting NCSA's National Cyber Security Awareness Month, Cisco, a founding sponsor of the Alliance, intends to fully support its efforts to educate home users, small businesses, teachers, students, and parents on cyber security and the role individuals can play in helping to prevent attacks against computers and critical infrastructures. An Internet-enabled company, Cisco understands the importance of raising awareness of security issues and best practices to protect investments in Internet technologies, intellectual properties and other assets.

"The enthusiastic response we have seen from all sectors of our society highlights the earnest need to increase cyber security awareness and safety in America's homes, offices, and classrooms," said Ken Watson, chairman, National Cyber Security Alliance. "This initiative unites stakeholders from all corners of business, government, and the education community to raise the visibility of key cyber security issues and best practices for protecting yourself online."

Cisco Systems Participates in National Cyber Security Awareness Month

"Cisco is committed to fostering a safe online experience for all users of the Internet," said Greg Akers, senior vice president and chief technology officer, Global Government Solutions, Cisco Systems. "National Cyber Security Awareness Month is an important component in reaching this goal. We look forward to working with the National Cyber Security Alliance to provide computer users with information and resources to support safe online computing."