The Cisco Qualified Specialist demonstrates
significant competency in a specific technology, market, solution,
or job role. Each Cisco Qualified Specialist is customized to meet
current market needs, and individuals may attain as many focused
certifications as they choose. Certifications are only valid
for two years, and those certifications available may fluctuate as
technologies are retired and replaced.
There are currently eight technologies which fall within
the Cisco Qualified Specialist portfolio.
Advanced Routing an Switching
- Recognizes candidates' ability to sell,
design, install, and support the core infrastructure of a Cisco
solution for small and medium-sized businesses. This recognition is
based on demonstrated knowledge of building, configuring, and
troubleshooting campus networks and remote access networks using
Cisco Catalyst multilayer switching technologies over high-speed
Ethernet and Cisco routers connected in LANs and WANs.
Foundation - Designed exclusively for Channel
Partners, the Foundation certifications validate fundamental
knowledge of routing and switching and the steps required to
incorporate wireless and security technologies in the IP
Network.
IP Communications -
Validates proficiency in designing,
installing, and supporting a multi-service network solution. There
are currently seven certifications focused on IP
Telephony.
Data Center Certifications -
validates knowledge of storage networking technology which focuses
on the Cisco MDS 9000 Series Multilayer Directors and Switches,
Cisco MDS 9509 Director Switch, Cisco 9216 Fabric Switch, and Cisco
MDS 9120 products. These skills support the deployment of highly
scaleable, reliable, distributed multi-service solution that is
based on a converged architecture in the single office, the remote
site, or the entire enterprise.
VPN & Security - Focuses on the growing
need for knowledgeable network professionals who can implement
complete network security solutions. The range of available
security certifications enable candidates to validate their
expertise in specific focused areas such as securing network access
using Cisco IOS Software and Cisco PIX Firewall Technologies or
configuring virtual private networks (VPN) across shared public
networks using Cisco IOS Software and Cisco VPN 3000 Series
Concentrator technologies.
Wireless LAN - focuses on the relevant factors
involved in designing, deploying and maintaining end-to-end Cisco
Wireless LAN solutions throughout or between buildings, without the
limitations of wires or cables.
Many Specialist certifications align with the requirements of
the Cisco Channel Partner
Programme