Vinton Cerf (1943-) and Bob Kahn (1938-) are considered to be the “Fathers of the Internet”, one of the most influential and society-altering inventions of the modern era. Although a project of such magnitude is almost rarely invented by one or two central figures, the National Inventors Hall of Fame  as well as virtually all sources agree: “Robert Kahn and Vinton Cerf created the architecture for the Internet and collaborated on the design of software known as the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol, or TCP/IP that implements the architecture.”

The idea of a vast network of information long predates Cerf and Kahn, but it wasn’t until the 1960’s when the idea started to become a reality as scientists began to experiment with methods that could transmit electrical data, known as “packet switching.” Numerous other organizations expanded on the technology during the 60’s including the U.S. Department of Defense, which created ARPANET, eventually leading to the creation of the modern day internet once it was integrated with Cerf and Kahn’s technology.

In the 70’s, Cerf and Kahn collaborated to create the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). This technology allowed a multitude of independent networks (and the computers within them) to share electric data and communicate. At the same time, multiple computers within the same network could also communicate. This internetwork technology became known as Internet Protocol (IP). According to History, “ARPANET adopted TCP/IP on January 1, 1983, and from there researchers began to assemble the “network of networks” that became the modern Internet.”

After their invention, both Cerf and Kahn would go on to play pioneering roles in the further development and growth of the industry. While working for the US Government, both men would help develop improved radio, satellite, internet, and security technology. Later, Cerf would play a role in the development of the first email system connected to the internet. 

The importance of their invention cannot be overstated enough; it is that revolutionary. Without their work, we would not have the internet, one of the most integral parts of our society and economy today.

Sources:

History Stories

National Inventors Hall of Fame

Cerf Wikipedia entry

Kahn Wikipedia entry