Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
   
The table below describes the focus of each CCIE track
   
Routing and Switching Track 1  Most popular CCIE track
2
 Expert knowledge of networking across LAN and WAN interfaces and  variety of routers and switches
3
 Solve complex connectivity problems to increase bandwidth, improve  response times, maximize performance, and support global operations
Security Track 1  Expert knowledge of security and VPN solutions
2  Solid understanding of Windows, Unix, Linux and HTTP, SMTP, FTP and  DNS
3
 Core IP routing not required, but must demonstrate in-depth  understanding of Layer 2 and 3 network infrastructure
4
 Capable of configuring complex, end-to-end secure networks,  troubleshooting integrated environments, and understanding common  attacks and mitigation techniques
Service Provider Track 1  Formerly known as CCIE Communications and Services
2  Expert knowledge of IP fundamentals and technologies
3
 Specialized knowledge in at least one area common to service  providers: Dial, DSL, Cable, Optical, WAN Switching, IP Telephony,  Content Networking, or Metro Ethernet
4
 CCIE in Service Provider--IP Telephony is considered an expert in IP  infrastructure with a high degree of VoIP literacy, contrasted with a  CCIE in Voice, who is considered an expert in VoIP, but not necessarily  in IP infrastructure
Storage Networking Track 1  Expert knowledge in the implementation and troubleshooting of storage  area networks
2  Skilled with LANs, MANs and WANs over Fibre Channel, iSCSI, FCIP and  FICON
3
 Core IP routing not required, but must demonstrate in-depth  understanding of Layer 2 and 3 network infrastructure
Voice Track 1
 Expert knowledge of Cisco Voice over IP (VoIP) products and solutions  in an enterprise environment
2
 Capable of building and configuring complex end-to-end telephony  network, troubleshooting and resolving VoIP-related problems
3
 Core IP routing not required, but must ensure quality of service using  in-depth understanding of Layer 2 and 3 network infrastructure
   
The Value of the CCIE
   
There are no formal prerequisites for CCIE certification.  Other professional certifications and/or specific training courses are not required.  Instead, candidates are expected to have an in-depth understanding of the subtleties, intricacies, and challenges of end-to-end networking.  You are strongly encouraged to have three to five years of job experience before attempting certification.  To obtain your CCIE, you must first pass a written qualification exam and then a corresponding hands-on lab exam.  This rigor translates into value in the workplace.
   
What CCIE certification stand for
   
CCIE identifies experts with the skills and experience to handle the most challenging assignments in their field.  CCIE exams are constantly updated and revised to evolve with the industry, focusing on current technologies and real-world applications.
 
CCIE is recognized worldwide as the most respected high-level certification in the industry.  The program continually updates and revises its testing tools and methodologies to ensure unparalleled program quality, relevance, and value.
 
CCIE is an objective way to compare individuals or job candidates with different experience and backgrounds.
 
Preferred status is given to Cisco partners who employ CCIEs.
   
Why you should hire a CCIE:
   
Maintenance of your network is fundamental to protect assets and to ensure seamless operations.  The environment is growing more complex with operations conducted over VPNs, wireless, remote access and the Internet.  You need proven experts to choose, implement, and maintain the solutions required.
 

Having certified staff can increase the confidence of your customers, investors, and business partners, and thereby boost your organization's credibility, reputation, and value.

 
Certified CCIEs are a highly-select group.  Less than 3% of all Cisco-certified individuals make it to the CCIE level, a tiny fraction of IT professionals worldwide.
 
Passing the exams is not easy.  Earning your CCIE requires passing a lab exam in a time-pressured environment.  Hands-on experience is the only way to prepare for the lab.
  
CCIEs have invested a lot to expand their knowledge and further their careers.  The average candidate spends thousands of their own dollars and at least eighteen months pursuing certification.  He or she will likely attempt the lab exam more than once before passing.
  
CCIEs are committed to maintaining their expert skills.  Keeping their status active requires passing a recertification exam every two years.
 
  The following is included with your training
 
  • Intensive group instruction
  • One-on-one instruction attention
  • Hands-on labs
  • Lab partner and group exercises
  • Question and answer drills.
  • Friendly competitions between concurrently running classes
  • Independent study
  • Self-testing