David L. Mills Obituary – Cause of Death News : “Internet Timekeeper Passes: Famed Tech Visionary Dies”

By | January 26, 2024

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2. Long-tailed keyword: “David L. Mills Internet running on time”.

The Internet’s “Father Time” David L. Mills Dies at 85

David L. Mills, an Internet pioneer known as the “Father Time” for his contributions to the development and implementation of a timing protocol used by financial markets, power grids, satellites, and billions of computers, passed away on January 17 at his home in Newark, Delaware. He was 85 years old.

The sad news of Dr. Mills’ death was confirmed by his daughter, Lee Schnitzler.

A Trailblazer in Computer Science

Dr. Mills was part of a small group of computer scientists in the 1960s and 1990s who played a crucial role in the creation of the Arpanet, an early network of interconnected computers primarily found in academic and research institutions. This groundbreaking project eventually paved the way for the global phenomenon we now know as the Internet.

During the development of the Arpanet, Dr. Mills and his colleagues faced numerous challenges, including the need to establish accurate communication between devices and ensure they operated synchronously. Recognizing the importance of precise timekeeping, Dr. Mills focused his efforts on creating protocols that would enable devices to communicate accurately.

The Importance of Time

One of the key challenges in creating a network of interconnected computers was ensuring that all devices maintained synchronized clocks with sub-millisecond precision. In 1985, Dr. Mills unveiled his solution: the Network Time Protocol (NTP).

NTP revolutionized the way computers across the globe synchronized their clocks, making it possible for financial markets, power grids, satellites, and billions of computers to work together seamlessly. Dr. Mills’ innovative protocol became the backbone of modern timekeeping on the Internet, earning him the well-deserved nickname, the “Father Time” of the Internet.

A Legacy of Innovation

Dr. Mills’ contributions to computer science extended far beyond the development of NTP. His work and expertise greatly influenced the field of network time synchronization and laid the foundation for further advancements in the industry.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Mills remained passionate about pushing the boundaries of technology and finding solutions to complex problems. His pioneering spirit and dedication to his craft earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.

Farewell to a Visionary

The passing of David L. Mills marks the end of an era in the world of computer science. His groundbreaking contributions to the development of the Internet and his role in establishing accurate timekeeping protocols will continue to impact our lives for years to come.

Although we mourn the loss of this visionary pioneer, we can take solace in the fact that his legacy lives on. Dr. Mills’ innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to advancing technology will continue to inspire future generations of computer scientists and shape the future of the Internet.

Our deepest condolences go out to Dr. Mills’ family and loved ones during this difficult time. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.

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– David L. Mills, Internet running on time
– David L. Mills, Internet pioneer.

   

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