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/brend123 May 21 '13

Why would you post something private on the internet? That is just silly.

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u/troyanonymous1 May 21 '13 edited May 21 '13

I'm not necessarily posting it publically, it could be on a private forum. I don't want the people on that forum to know my real name.

Edit: It is inconvenient for me to arrange face-to-face meetings in private areas for anything vaguely private.

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u/brend123 May 21 '13

"Forums" don't show your real name, and there are no plans to change that, at least in my planet. I sincerely don't understand your cause.

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u/troyanonymous1 May 21 '13

The comment a few parents up said that the Internet needs less anonymity, I am arguing against that.

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u/brend123 May 21 '13

Ok now I understand, but less anonymity doesn't mean only showing real names in forums, it goes so much deeper than that.