8/4/2004 -- On Friday Cisco Systems announced that next month it will be launching a new beta version of its Routing & Switching (R&S) Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert "Written" exam, which candidates must pass before attempting the CCIE R&S lab exam.

Detailed information on the beta -- including exam number -- were not available by press time. Cisco did say on the Web site that the beta will cost $50 and will run from Aug. 31 through Sept. 21 at Pearson Vue and Prometric testing centers worldwide. Those who pass will receive full credit toward certification.

CCIE Written exams normally cost $300 (U.S.).

No word was given on when the current CCIE R&S Written, 350-001, would be retired, or when the new exam is expected to go "live."

To view the official announcement of this beta, go here. -Becky Nagel