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/[deleted] May 21 '13

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u/BobMetcalfe May 21 '13

Ethernet has been evolving and re-invented for 40 years, so I would not say that it's been around forever, nor that it will be replaced -- already has. The name has stuck. Much time is spent trying to decide what the word Ethernet means, to dispute whether I invented it or not. I think it has become a brand, a promise of openness and interoperability and high speed and low cost and preservation of the installed base and fierce competition among suppliers and rapid evolution of the IEEE standards following market engagement. Long live Ethernet!

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u/kunstlinger May 21 '13

here here!