Event Information - Proceedings - Part 01: Welcome and Introductions (November 29, 2007)

Abstract

Video footage of Part 1 ("Welcome and Introductions") of the NSFNET 20th Anniversary event. Speakers relate how, in 1979, the benefits of computer networks were not fully appreciated, even within the academic community. The ARPANET provided network services to a small group of researchers in academia and affiliated research laboratories. A number of community networks—Bitnet, CSNET, UUCP and SPAN/HEPNET—served a growing number of users in universities and industry who understood the value of network connectivity to their teaching and research missions. These early activities led to a proposal for a national ScienceNet and later for a network to connect researchers to supercomputer centers. Ultimately, the National Science Foundation initiated the NSFNET Program and constructed an initial 56 kbps NSFNET backbone network. The video includes a panel discussion of NSFNET's evolutionary steps, controversies over technical and financial models, issues in providing nationwide access, the development of policies, and the emergence of a three level system consisting of a national backbone, regional connectors and campus networks.