Achieving CCIE status signifies your real-world mastery of networking issues and is obtained by passing both a CCIE written exam and a hands-on CCIE lab exam in one of the four CCIE tracks noted below.
CCIE Routing and Switching
Routing and Switching is the most popular CCIE track. Certification in Routing and Switching indicates expert level knowledge of networking across various LAN and WAN interfaces and a variety of routers and switches. Experts in R&S solve complex connectivity problems and apply technology solutions to increase bandwidth, improve response times, maximize performance, improve security, and support global applications.
CCIE Service Provider
(formerly known as Communications & Services) Service Provider certification indicates expert level knowledge in the fundamentals of IP technologies, as well as specialized knowledge in at least one of the networking areas specific to service providers, including Dial, DSL, Cable, Optical, WAN Switching, IP Telephony and Content Networking.
CCIE Security
Certification in this track indicates expert level knowledge across security and VPN solutions and a solid understanding of various operating systems (Windows, Unix and Linux) and common application services (for example HTTP, SMTP, FTP and DNS). CCIE Security experts are capable of configuring complex end-to-end secure networks, can troubleshoot integrated environments, and possess strong understanding of common attacks and mitigation techniques.
CCIE Voice
Certification in this track indicates expert level knowledge of Cisco Voice over IP (VoIP) products and solutions in an enterprise environment. Individuals with CCIE Voice certification are capable of building and configuring a complex, end-to-end IP telephony network and are experts in troubleshooting and resolving VoIP-related problems.
CCIE certification will better prepare you for the IT workplace where employers require CCIE training and prerequisites for such CCIE jobs. Preparation for the CCIE written test, CCIE equipment, CCIE lab and CCIE written exam will help to ensure your victory when taking the CCIE test. Attending a virtual or actual Cisco CCIE bootcamp, or CCIE written bootcamp can better prepare you for the CCIE gotchas and provide better CCIE training. This should be a key factor in your CCIE certification programs.
CCIE labs are designed to test your CCIE equipment skills for your futire CCIE jobs. This is also examined through CCIE written tests and CCIE written exams. Combining a CCIE written bootcamp would also benefit your end results. CCIE gotchas, can be avoided and solved through proper use of CCIE training provided through CCIE certification programs which focus on the CCIE written aspects of the CCIE written exam and CCIE lab. Do not however let the CCIE written focus detract from the CCIE equipment review.