Cisco Bolsters Network Security with New Services

February 22, 2002 -- (WEB HOST INDUSTRY REVIEW) -- Cisco Systems, Inc. (cisco.com) today announced a new bundling of services, that include its security certifications and its "total solution" approach to network security. Cisco's security certifications are a critical component of SAFE, a adaptable blueprint for security and VPN networks. SAFE is based on Cisco AVVID (Architecture for Voice, Video and Integrated Data), securing e-Business transactions. The announcement was made in conjunction with this week's RSA Security Conference in San Jose, California.

As electronic security is becoming increasingly mainstream, so too is the demand for skilled networking professionals capable of implementing and operating complex network infrastructures. In response, CCIE Security and Cisco Security Specialist 1 are aiming to achieve the highest level of technical knowledge and expertise across a broad range of security and internetworking-related technologies including Cisco intrusion detection, firewall and VPN solutions.

CCIE Security certification is amongst the rigorous in the industry. This recent addition to the CCIE program focuses on a number of security-related technologies in addition to the traditional CCIE focus on core IP routing and switching. Candidates must perform by physically configuring a secure enterprise network under timed, stressful conditions. Drills include firewalls, intrusion detection, authentication servers, routers and switches.

"As organizations accelerate their interest in Internet business solutions, they need qualified networking professionals who possess the skills necessary to ensure the security of all network-based transactions," said Tom Kelly, vice president, Internet Learning Solutions Group, Cisco Systems.