The expert-level certification is the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE). It is the highest level of professional certification that Cisco provides. There are 5 active CCIE tracks, as below. As of August 1, 2006 there are 13,602 people with active CCIE certifications. The CCIE certification was deemed the most prestigious IT certification in the year 2005, providing those certified with the highest paying jobs in the IT industry..

The CCIE is comprised of a written exam and a "lab" exam (each in the specific area of the chosen track). The written exam is required to take the lab exam, and has a cost of $300 USD per attempt. Upon successful completion of the written exam, the candidate then qualifies to register for the lab portion. The CCIE Lab is currently $1,250 USD per attempt. CCIE Labs are offered only in San Jose, CA, and the candidate is fully responsible for any travel expenses incurred as a result of travelling to the lab.

The Lab is an 8-hour hands-on exam designed to demonstrate that the candidate not only knows the theory, but is also able to practice it. Many prospective CCIEs need multiple attempts to pass the lab exam.

There are no formal prerequisites for the CCIE exam, but Cisco recommends one has at least 3 - 5 years experience in networking before attempting to become a CCIE.