1. David L. Mills Internet
2. Internet Running on Time.
David L. Mills, Internet Pioneer and “Father Time,” Passes Away at 85
David L. Mills, a renowned internet pioneer and the mastermind behind the timekeeping protocol that ensures the synchronization of financial markets, power grids, satellites, and billions of computers, passed away on January 17 at the age of 85. His daughter, Leigh Schnitzler, confirmed the sad news.
A Legacy in the World of Computer Science
Dr. Mills was an integral part of the inner circle of computer scientists who played a crucial role in the development of Arpanet in the 1960s. This initial network of interconnected computers, housed in research and academic institutions, laid the foundation for the internet we know today.
While connecting computers was already a challenging task, Dr. Mills and his colleagues recognized the need for protocols that would ensure accurate communication between devices. His particular focus was on time synchronization, as every machine has its own internal clock. However, for a network of devices to function seamlessly, they needed to operate simultaneously down to the smallest fraction of a millisecond.
The Birth of Network Time Protocol
In 1985, Dr. Mills came up with the network time protocol (NTP), a groundbreaking solution to the challenge of time synchronization. NTP relies on a hierarchical structure of devices, with everyday servers at the bottom. These servers regularly communicate with a smaller number of more powerful servers, which then communicate with an even smaller number of highly advanced servers connected to precise timekeeping devices like atomic clocks.
By drawing consensus time from these core devices, the “official” time is disseminated back down the hierarchy. Within the system, algorithms are in place to detect and correct errors, ensuring accuracy down to a tenth of a millisecond.
A Remarkable Contribution to Connectivity
Dr. Mills’ innovative contributions to timekeeping protocols have been instrumental in maintaining the smooth functioning of countless industries and systems worldwide. Financial markets, power grids, satellites, and billions of computers rely on his work to operate synchronously, enabling efficient communication and coordination.
While the cause of Dr. Mills’ passing is currently unknown, his legacy as the internet’s “Father Time” will continue to live on. His groundbreaking work has left an indelible mark on the world of computer science and connectivity, shaping the way we navigate and interact with the vast digital landscape we rely on today.
David L. Mills’ untimely departure is a great loss to the field of computer science, and his contributions will be forever cherished and remembered. His pioneering spirit and dedication to the development of the internet have paved the way for technological advancements that have revolutionized our lives.
May his soul rest in peace.
This article was originally published on the New York Times.
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– David L. Mills, internet running on time
– David L. Mills, kept the internet running.
