Interoperability Verification Testing Interoperability Verification Testing

1.    What is IVT?

Interoperability Verification Testing (IVT) offered under the program is designed to allow developers to demonstrate the interoperability of their products (application software and/or hardware) with Cisco technologies.  View this presentation to understand the IVT process.

IVT varies by technology.  To learn more about IVT for a particular technology, please refer to the following links:


2.    Benefits of IVT

By demonstrating interoperability through IVT, Developers can promote products and technologies as “Cisco Compatible.”  Customers faced with a choice between tested and un-tested products may prefer the product that has gone through IVT. Customers may also be reassured by knowing that your technologies have been pre-tested, reducing integration costs, accelerating deployments and minimizing risk of failure. Often Cisco IVT is a pre-requisite for customers to consider the solution.

3.    How can you participate in IVT?

To participate in IVT, you will be required to fill out a detailed questionnaire designed to capture the information Cisco needs to learn more about your product, develop a test plan, and determine the appropriate method of testing.  The developer will also be expected to verify test-readiness (including completion of test plans, lab configurations, and other supporting documentation) prior to going through the IVT process.

To submit and IVT request, access your Developer Dashboard, go to the Registered Products Tab and select "Actions" and "Add New IVT Request" next to the product to be submitted for IVT.

Depending on the requirements of the specific Cisco technology, testing can be carried out in one or more of the following formats:

•    “On-site” at a Cisco or an authorized Cisco test lab. This typically requires the physical presence of developer equipment and engineering support.

•    “Remote Virtual Test” carried out at the developer premise by means of a network connection to the centrally hosted test lab.  Availability of Remote Virtual Testing may vary by solution category.

•    “Self Test” carried out by the developer, based on a test plan and guidance provided by Cisco, and audited by a Cisco authorized lab.

For all testing, developers will be expected to complete a statement of work and pay the appropriate testing fees. Developers must have engineers present during part or all of the testing, in order to provide technical support, ensure correct set up, tuning, etc. 

View this presentation to understand the IVT process.

4.    Test Results

Upon completion of the testing, the results of the on-site and remote virtual tests will be presented to the developer and Cisco Relationship Manager for review.  Provided IVT is successfully completed, only test results mutually agreed will be made publicly available.

5.    Re-testing requirements

Cisco reserves the right to have the developer resubmit its product for interoperability testing when:  (i) a developer has a new product release, or (ii) Cisco has a new product release. Failure to maintain interoperability status deprives Developer from associated rights to use a Cisco Compatible logo in connection with a product. 

6.    Testing fees

The table below summarizes the various methods of testing available and the estimated average cost of performing each test.  Actual fees owed may vary.  Please note that testing costs vary by product, test complexity, lab equipment requirements, and the engineering resources needed. 

Method of Testing
Average Testing Fees
Cisco Authorized IVT Lab
$3,000.00 - $25,000.00
Cisco facility testing
$1,500.00 - $25,000.00
Self testing
$500.00 - $3,000.00
Remote virtual testing
TBD


7.    Beta Testing

Beta testing may be available to developers based on their level and the solution category in which they participate.  If beta testing is available, details on eligibility, guidelines, and processes will be made accessible in the appropriate Tech Center in the Cisco Developer Community portal.  Terms and conditions apply as set forth in the Program agreement.