Ethernet Switch Pioneer Larry Blair | Generated by AI

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Question: Who is Larry Blair in networking? What is his life story?

Answer:

Larry Blair is a prominent figure in the field of computer networking, recognized as a high-tech pioneer for his foundational contributions to Ethernet switching technology.

He co-founded Kalpana, Inc. in the early 1990s with Vinod Bhardwaj. Kalpana developed and manufactured the world’s first Ethernet switch, a groundbreaking innovation that significantly improved network performance by segmenting local area networks (LANs), making them faster, cheaper, and easier to manage. This technology largely replaced traditional Ethernet hubs and paved the way for advancements like Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet. In 1994, Cisco Systems acquired Kalpana, integrating its switching technology into Cisco’s product line and helping establish Ethernet switching as a core networking standard.

After Kalpana, Blair held vice president of marketing roles at several Silicon Valley startups, including Ipsilon Networks (focused on IP switching, later acquired by Nokia) and Redback Networks (involved in high-speed internet and subscriber management, which went public and was later acquired by Ericsson). His work helped build multi-billion-dollar industries in networking architecture and broadband technologies.

Earlier in his career, Blair worked at Eastman Kodak Company as a senior project manager. He holds a degree from Rochester Institute of Technology. Following his retirement from the fast-paced Silicon Valley tech scene, he pursued interests in fine art photography and relocated to areas like Naples, Florida. He is also associated with Blair Ventures, LLC, and has been involved in later ventures like BuildFire.

Blair is described as a key marketer and strategist who played a significant role in promoting and establishing these networking innovations.

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