By Doug Allen

Cisco is expanding its Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) program in a way. Actually, its extending the program benefits to longtime CCIE partners so that they can continue to remain associated with the program even if they have not been active participants for some time on a day-to-day basis, operational basis. As part of the extension, called Cisco Emeritus, inactive members can also opt back into the CCIE program if they want to return to active status at a now-reduced cost.

As of August 1, Cisco will notify CCIE partners of 10 years or more that they are eligible for the Emeritus extension. Upon successful review of a partners application for Emeritus status, Cisco will grant one year of program benefits; candidates must re-apply each year to continue in good standing.

Currently, CCIEs must renew their certification every two years by passing a $350 written exam. Those that let their membership lapse but then want to rejoin have to go through the entire training again, including course curriculum and lab work that carry high costs for each attempt.

With Emeritus, the CCIE bypasses all that by paying an annual fee of $85; this does not make them active CCIEs, but does put them in position to regain that title upon passing a written exam.

To qualify for Emeritus, CCIEs must have 10 years as a current and active CCIE under their belt, and can not be affiliated with a company channel or partner.

In exchange, CCIEs receive permission to use the Emeritus logo or brand, subject to company requirements; keep their CCIE number, now classified as Emeritus status; are recognized for technical proficiency and their veteran status within the program; continue to enjoy full access to discussion forums, blogs, groups and other forms of ongoing education; and the option to re-activate their CCIE status anytime over the next ten years upon passing any current written CCIE exam.

On the down side, CCIEs under Emeritus remain officially non-active in Ciscos eyes, and as such do not enjoy TAC support privileges or preference, or count toward maintaining status levels for channel partners.