Cisco unveils CCIE changes

Gold standard in Cisco engineering gets a facelift

Networking behemoth Cisco has announced several enhancements to its CCIE programme for top-level engineers.

This includes the availability of the new Cisco 360 Learning Programme for CCIE Routing and Switching and the launch of the CCIE Routing and Switching mobile lab initiative.

The giant has also expanded access to employment opportunities through the Cisco Learning Network. In addition, Cisco announced the availability of practical exams for CCDE – a new certification on a par with CCIE – and updates to its CCIE Security lab exam.

The Cisco 360 Learning Programme is described as a “six-month blended learning experience”, incorporating advanced skills assessments, targeted learning modules and hands-on practice labs to accelerate expert-level competency and replicate real-world job scenarios

Melanie Comyn, certification-training manager at Cisco partnerVerizon Business, said: “With this new programme, we have full visibility on our candidates as they progress toward achieving the certification. It also allows us to set up a mentoring function where prospective CCIE candidates are paired with more experienced network experts in the organisation, helping people through the challenges of attaining this credential.”

Meanwhile, the CCIE mobile lab initiative will see Cisco offering more candidates the ability to take exams in their own country.

The networking vendor also announced that Registered members of the Cisco Learning Network can now search for all jobs posted to CareerBuilder’s extensive job database without having to leave the Cisco site.

Jeanne Beliveau-Dunn, general manager, Learning@Cisco. “As the CCIE programme evolves with the industry, we are focusing our expert-education services on today's more sophisticated and scalable technologies, new applications and mapping capabilities within relevant job roles that will enhance customer and partner success.”