Dr Larry Roberts, a pioneer in the creation of the internet, has passed away at the age of 81. Renowned for his work at the Pentagon’s Advanced Research Projects Agency, he played a pivotal role in developing Arpanet.
His contributions to modern computing, especially in the field of packet-switching, have had a lasting impact on how we communicate today.
The Birth of Arpanet
Dr Larry Roberts is best known for leading the development of Arpanet, the precursor to the modern internet. During the 1960s, while managing the Pentagon’s Advanced Research Projects Agency, he introduced the concept of ‘packet-switching’ data exchange. This revolutionary approach to data communication is now a cornerstone of internet technology.
Initial Challenges and Acceptance
Dr Roberts shared in a 1989 interview how it took a few years for these institutions to fully appreciate Arpanet’s capabilities. Once adopted, users soon realised the potential for collaborative research, shared publishing, and new forms of communication such as email.
Arpanet Merges with the Internet
By 1990, Dr Roberts and his co-founders sold Telenet to GTE for $60 million. This move marked another significant milestone in the commercialisation of internet technologies.
Recognition and Legacy
Dr Roberts passed away from a heart attack on 26th December at his home in Redwood City, California.
Impact on Modern Technology
Today, his contributions continue to influence many areas, including cloud computing, online communications, and network reliability.
Personal Reflections and Tributes
Vint Cerf, one of his peers, remarked, “Larry’s work on Arpanet was instrumental in the creation of the internet as we know it today. 🌐”
A Legacy Remembered
Dr Larry Roberts’ legacy endures through the technologies he developed and the countless innovations they enabled. His pioneering work remains a cornerstone of modern computing and digital communication systems.
Dr Larry Roberts’ passing marks the end of a remarkable journey for one of the internet’s founding figures. His visionary work continues to shape the digital landscape, influencing both current and future technologies.
