Press Release

WildPackets Academy Introduces Network Analysis Expert (NAX) Certification Program

CNX-certified IT professionals can transition to NAX certification at no cost

WALNUT CREEK, California - March 14, 2001

WildPackets, Inc., developer of AiroPeek and EtherPeek protocol analyzers, today announced their NAX Certification Program, the continuation of the 9-year protocol analysis certification effort begun by the Certified Network Expert (CNX) Consortium in the 1990s. NAX Certification picks up where the retired CNX certification program left off in accrediting IT professionals with protocol analysis expertise.

Following the disbanding of the CNX Consortium earlier this year, the CNX program was retired. To insure that the accreditation and industry recognition received through CNX is maintained, WildPackets Academy created a program that maintains and extends the original vendor-neutral certification. CNX-certified IT professionals can transition to NAX certification at no additional cost to them.

Unlike vendor-specific certification, the NAX program tests core protocol analysis skills and academic knowledge. "Solid technical certification allows experts to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace and provides managers of multi-vendor, multi-protocol networks with a way to identify qualified, trained professionals," said Joe Bardwell, Vice President of Professional Services at WildPackets. "While there's no way to guarantee network uptime, a manager can ensure that the IT professionals who support the network are properly certified."

NAX test objectives are not tied to single vendor products and methodologies. This vendor-neutral approach assures that the tests do not over-emphasize issues that are only faced in specialized subsets of the overall marketplace. The exams progress through three levels: Applied Analysis Technician (AATech), Protocol Analysis Specialist (PAS), and ultimately the Network Analysis Expert (NAX) certification. WildPackets Academy also offers classes and video-based instructional programs to prepare for the exams, although attendance is not a requirement for certification. Skills can be demonstrated through web-based Equivalency Lab Exams in lieu of class attendance, making it easy for busy professionals to take exams while reducing the cost associated with outside delivery.

About NAX Certification

The NAX certificate is achieved after completing a prescribed course of study and passing a series of web-based exams. Developed by the author of the original CNX examinations, the NAX program expands the demand for high-level expertise at the top certification tier by asking candidates to write a brief technical white paper, following a proven academic model used in the college and university environment. Requirements for each program level are described at http://www.nax2000.com.

About WildPackets Academy

Through the creation of a structured educational curriculum, WildPackets Academy meets the professional development and protocol analysis training requirements of corporate, educational, government, and private network managers and support staff. WildPackets Academy course offerings are available in public venues and as on-site programs that can be tailored to meet specific customer requirements. Complete information is available from http://www.wildpacketsacademy.com.

About WildPackets, Inc.

WildPackets, Inc. has developed affordable network software for over ten years. Information about WildPackets products, partners, training and consulting can be found at http://www.wildpackets.com.