Networking has revolutionized computing. Scientists
use networks to exchange data, disseminate research
results, and collaborate with others. Because no one
technology satisfies the diverse needs of users, thou-
sands of independent networks are scattered around
the world.
Explosive growth is taxing current Internet routing
mechanisms. New sites continue to join the Internet
on a daily basis, and sites add new links to destinations
with which they desire better connectivity. In some
sense, the Internet is a victim of its own success; many
routing protocols are being used in environments for
which they had not been designed.
(From his ICANN bio.)
Thomas Narten works on Internet Technology and Strategy at IBM in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. He has worked for IBM since 1995 and has been involved in networking for 20 years.
Since 1995, he has been an active contributor in the IETF, co-authoring 10 RFCs, including two core IPv6 specifications. From 1997 to 2005, he was an IETF Area Director for the Internet area. During this time, he focused on strengthening the working relationship between IANA and the IETF and between the IETF and the RIR community.
flickr from ICANN 2007 meeting in Portugal
Beginning Fishkeeping by Thomas Narten