Cisco Systems Inc. recently unveiled its new Cisco Optical Specialist 1 certification, the 12th area of focus for its Cisco Qualified Specialist program. The COS1 will validate the knowledge and expertise required to design, install, operate and maintain Cisco optical networking systems.
Individuals who successfully achieve certification will be required to understand the protocols and technologies underlying optical networking, including SONET/SDH (Synchronous Optical Network/Synchronous Digital Hierarchy), DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing), DPT/RPR (Dynamic Packet Transfer/Resilient Packet Ring), POS (Packet Over SONET), Optical Cross Connects, Ethernet services over optical and Element Management. Also, those who receive certification must be able to describe, operate and troubleshoot Cisco optical networking products in Metro (a Cisco optical network platform) access and regional environments.
To become certified as a COS1, individuals must pass the COS1 exam #9E0-611. Prospective certification holders would ideally have a strong background in optical networking, particularly using Cisco optical products and their respective applications within a Metro environment. There are no prerequisites, but the following courses are recommended (or the equivalent field experience):
- Introduction to Optical Networking Technologies
- Optical Metro Solutions
- Cisco ONS 15454/15216 Provisioning and Operating Training
- Cisco ONS 15201/15252 Provisioning and Operating Training/Cisco Transport Manager
Like other Cisco Qualified Specialist program courses, the COS1 is valid for two years from the date of passing the exam. Training courses are available through Cisco Learning Partners and the Partner E-Learning Connection. Virtual University Enterprises and Prometric offer Cisco certification classes worldwide. For more information on the certification, go here and click on “Whats New.”