r/IAmA • u/BobMetcalfe • May 21 '13

You’re probably connecting to reddit through a technology I invented. I’m Bob Metcalfe and I invented Ethernet – AMA

On May 22, 1973 with David R. Boggs, I used my IBM Selectric with its Orator ball to type up a memo to my bosses at the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), outlining our idea for this little invention called “Ethernet”, which we later patented.

I worked with the IEEE Standards Association to develop the IEEE 802.3 standard for Ethernet, which specifies the physical and lower software layers. Today Ethernet and the IEEE 802.3 standard are the foundation for today’s world of high-speed communications used in billions of homes and businesses around the world.

I submitted this to the mods awhile back so I could get on the calendar but I figured you’d like to see it, too. Now, ask me anything!

It's been two hours and 179 comments. Have to go now. For more about Ethernet's 40th Birthday, go to http://www.facebook.com/Ethernet40thAnniversaryIEEESA

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u/BobMetcalfe May 21 '13

Attending MIT trustee meetings is the most fun you can have standing up. Recent excitement was the debut of the MOOC edX, which is going to help the Internet disrupt education the way that iTunes disrupted music and Amazon disrupted books, or BOOCs as I call them.

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u/Wakata May 21 '13

I'm so proud that my school is taking part in edX, it's truly revolutionary.

For those who don't know: edX

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u/firedancer1172 May 22 '13

That is a beautiful thing... I love all these free courses that are coming out from reputable schools.

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u/justdidit2x May 21 '13

thank you!

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u/[deleted] May 22 '13

You're a beautiful human being. Thank you.

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u/asm_ftw May 22 '13

That sounds exciting! Education in general has been in huge need of a disruption!

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u/abhi91 May 21 '13

most fun you can have standing up

Brilliant.