6/27/2001 -- Cisco launched two new CCIE exams this month.

On June 7, Cisco released Multiservice (exam 350-010), a recertification exam intended for Cisco professionals who need to work with data and voice packet transport.

The exam is one in a series that CCIEs can choose to take as part of their recertification efforts. Each test has 100 computer-based questions that lasts two hours. Recertification, which must take place every two years, was mandated by Cisco in February. Those CCIEs who don't recertify by the deadline are placed on an "inactive" list, which means they lose certain benefits, such as access to specific online resources. A blueprint of the Multiservice exam as well as a list of study materials can be found on Cisco's Web site (click here).

This week, Cisco also announced the final version of its CCIE Security qualification exam (350-018). This exam must be passed by those who want to take the CCIE security lab exam. According to Cisco's Web site, the corresponding lab is scheduled to go live August 1. For a blueprint of this qualification exam, click here. -D.S., B.N