Security Certified Exams Launches with Global Program
Contacts:
Tracy Andrews
Security Certified Network
630.472.5790
Tracy@SecurityCertified.Net
Darcel Kimble
Prometric, a division of Thomson Learning
443.923.6706
darcel.kimble@prometric.com
Prometric Offers Global Delivery of Security Certified Program (SCP) Exams
Vendor-neutral, Two-level Security Professional and Architect Exams
(BALTIMORE, MD - Oct. 18, 2001) Prometric, a division of Thomson Learning and the world's leading computer-based testing and assessment company, today announced plans to deliver Security Certified Program (SCP) unique brand of tests through its global network of more than 4,200 testing centers beginning in November 2001.
SCP is a two-level vendor-neutral security certification program. Using the two-level program individuals can acquire skills and gain certification as a Level 1 Security Certified Network Professional (SCNP) and a Level 2 Security Certified Network Architect (SCNA).
The 2001 Global Information Security Survey, fielded by PricewaterhouseCoopers and InformationWeek, reports that most businesses regard enhancing enterprise network security as a strategic priority.
"Executives today have to align security and privacy policies with business objectives," said Uday O. Ali Pabrai, co-creator of SCP. "Security is required at each state of e-business adoption. This is leading to a strong demand for skilled and certified security professionals. We are excited about rolling out SCP exams with Prometric, the global leader in the delivery of IT exams. Individuals can now acquire security skills, security knowledge and then test at any Prometric-affiliated testing center worldwide."
The SCP structure is unique in that it measures competence both in the core skills that are broadly required for the roles of security professional and security architect, as well as skills in specific security technologies such as firewalls, IDS, PKI, biometrics and forensics.
Professionals certified in Network+, MCP, MCSE, CCNA and CCNP would find SCP an ideal next step for demonstrating the security skills and knowledge that employers want and value.
"Prometric is particularly pleased to deliver this unique exam that will allow professionals to enhance the security of the networks they manage while enhancing their own careers and professional development," said Alison Indrisano, Senior Vice President Client Services and Support.
SCP Level 1 is about defense, the state of security technology today at enterprises – firewall systems, intrusion detection systems and secure Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). SCP Level 1 includes two courses, Network Security Fundamentals and Network Defense and Countermeasures. Each course is 40 hours in duration. To become an SCNP, candidates must pass Level 1 exams.
SCP Level 2 is about trust. Enterprises are fast moving to integrate Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), biometrics and smart cards as a part of their infrastructure. This is vital for all businesses as they look to more tightly integrate their partners and suppliers and provide real-time information and services to customers. Level 2, referred to as The PKI Academy, is about PKI fundamentals, technology, and policy, about strong authentication, encryption, biometrics, smart cards and forensics. SCP Level 2 includes two courses, PKI Concepts and Planning, and PKI and Biometrics Implementation. Each course is 40 hours in duration. Level 2 content and hands-on labs are structured to build PKI skills required of today's security architect. To become an SCNA, candidates must pass Level 2 exams. Proctored exams for SCNP and SCNA will be available in the fourth quarter of 2001.
About Prometric
Prometric (www.prometric.com) is the global leader in the delivery of technology-based testing and assessment services for information technology certification, academic admissions, and professional licensure/certification, delivering standardized tests for more than 200 clients, in 25 languages, through a network of more than 4,200 testing centers in 128 countries. Based in Baltimore, Md., Prometric employs more than 3,000 employees worldwide.
Prometric is the technology-based testing part of Thomson Learning (www.thomsonlearning.com), one of the world's leading providers of learning solutions. Thomson Learning serves the needs of individuals, learning institutions, and corporations with products and services for traditional and electronic learning. Thomson Learning is part of the Thomson Corporation (TSE: TOC), a leading, global e-information and solutions company in the business and professional marketplace with 2000 revenues of U.S. $6.0 billion. The Corporation's common shares are listed on the Toronto and London Stock Exchanges.
About Security Certified Program (SCP)
SCP is an e-learning organization based in Geneva, Illinois with focus on security-related content development. Uday O. Ali Pabrai, Chairman of Ascendant Learning and CEO of ecfirst.com, previously created the Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW) program and was instrumental in the development of CompTIA's i-Net+ program. Pabrai is an accomplished expert in e-security technologies in the fields of PKI, biometrics and enterprise network security policy, architecture and systems. SCP is based on real-world experiences at diverse organizations including Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Elkay Manufacturing, Wells Fargo, U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center, the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency and many others.
