– David L. Mills, internet pioneer, dies at 85
– Remembering David L. Mills, the man behind the internet’s clock.

Internet Pioneer David L. Mills, Father of Network Time Protocol, Passes Away at 85

Background and Contributions

David L. Mills, a renowned internet pioneer and the mastermind behind the timekeeping protocol used by financial markets, power grids, satellites, and billions of computers worldwide, passed away on January 17 at the age of 85. His daughter, Leigh Schnitzler, confirmed the news of his demise.

Dr. Mills was an integral part of the inner circle of computer scientists who played a crucial role in developing the Arpanet, a precursor to the internet, during the 1960s through the ’90s. He then went on to contribute to the creation of its global successor, the internet.

The Timekeeping Challenge

While connecting a small number of computers was already a significant challenge, Dr. Mills and his colleagues recognized the need to establish protocols ensuring accurate communication between devices. One of the critical aspects they focused on was time synchronization.

Each machine has its own internal clock, but for a network of devices to function seamlessly, they needed to operate simultaneously, down to the fraction of a millisecond. In 1985, Dr. Mills introduced the network time protocol as the solution to this synchronization dilemma.

Legacy and Impact

The network time protocol developed by Dr. Mills revolutionized the way computers and devices across the globe communicate and synchronize time. Financial markets, power grids, satellites, and countless computers rely on this protocol to ensure accurate timing, making him widely known as the internet’s “Father Time.”

Dr. Mills’ groundbreaking contributions have played a vital role in facilitating the smooth functioning of various sectors, from financial transactions to satellite communication. His work has had a profound impact on the reliability and efficiency of modern technology.

Remembering David L. Mills

David L. Mills leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shape the digital landscape for years to come. His dedication and expertise in the field of computer science have earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers worldwide.

Although the cause of his death has not been disclosed, his passing represents a significant loss to the internet community. Dr. Mills will always be remembered for his immense contributions to the development of the internet and the critical role he played in ensuring accurate timekeeping across the digital realm.

As we mourn his departure, we pay tribute to the life and work of David L. Mills, a visionary who forever changed the way we connect and communicate in the modern world.

Final Words

David L. Mills, the internet’s “Father Time,” passed away on January 17 at the age of 85. His pioneering work on the network time protocol has left an indelible mark on the internet and the global technology landscape. Dr. Mills’ contributions in the field of computer science will continue to influence and shape the way we connect and synchronize devices in the digital age.

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– David L. Mills, Internet Running on Time
– David L. Mills, Internet Pioneer.