SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Cisco Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq:CSCO), announced today that Schlumberger Limited (NYSE:SLB), has selected Cisco 12400 routers for the data infrastructure underpinning of its DeXa.Net(1) Secure Private Network (SPN) service. Key services such as security and 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps) scalability with verifiable end-to-end Quality of Service (QoS) were key factors in selecting Cisco. New Internet Protocol (IP) based network applications and services, such as voice over IP (VoIP), streaming audio and videoconferencing were driving the need for higher bandwidth, predictable performance and QoS within the Schlumberger corporate global data network. To fill this need, Schlumberger built its own Virtual Private Network (VPN) using Cisco routers. Today, it uses its global VPN, secured through the Schlumberger DeXa.Badge smart card access management solutions; to deliver value-added IT services to existing enterprise customers as well as to potential customers. "The data infrastructure component of our DeXa.Net service represents a new breed of global commercial network. We knew this network would have to provide scaleable high-speed connectivity with predictable performance, rapid service provisioning and selectable QoS levels, which is why we chose to work with Cisco," said Jean-Michel Rouylou, vice president, Connectivity Services, Schlumberger. "It was clear that Cisco understood not only our needs, but also the concept of maximizing the value of our network to deliver applications and services developed by Schlumberger to customers on a global basis. The Cisco 12400 routers provide 10 Gigabit per second scalability whereever we need it." In a separate release: Cisco Systems, Inc.(R), the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, today announced the addition of the 12th focused certification to the Cisco Qualified Specialist Program. The rapid growth and success of the Cisco Qualified Specialist program demonstrates Cisco's commitment to helping customers and channel partners stay aligned with emerging Cisco technologies to meet new business challenges. The new Cisco Optical Specialist 1 certification validates the knowledge and expertise required to design, install, operate and maintain Cisco optical networking systems. Individuals who become certified as a Cisco Optical Specialist 1 will gain the knowledge and skills required to understand the protocols and underlying technology of optical systems such as SONET/SDH, DWDM, DPT/RPR, POS, Optical Cross Connects, Ethernet services over optical and Element Management. In addition, certified individuals will be able to describe, operate and troubleshoot Cisco optical networking products in METRO access and regional environments. Launched in April 2001, the Cisco Qualified Specialist program was developed to extend the Cisco Career Certification Program by validating significant competency in specific technologies, vertical markets, solutions and job roles. With the addition of the Cisco Optical Specialist 1, the program offers certifications in nine specific technology areas: Cisco Cable Communications Specialist; Cisco Content Networking Specialist; Cisco IP Telephony Support Specialist, IP Telephony Design Specialist & IP Telephony Operations Specialist; Cisco Internet Solutions Specialist; Cisco Multiservice Switching Specialist; Cisco MxU Specialist; Cisco Optical Specialist 1; Cisco Security Specialist 1; Cisco SNA/IP Design Specialist & Cisco SNA/IP Support Specialist. Cisco Systems Inc.