The Internet Challenge: Conflict and Compromise in Computer Networking

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Abstract
The conflict that arose in the mid-1970s over computer networking standards provides a case study of the social and technical implications of standards debates. The conflict over competing networking standards reveals both conflicts of interest between the groups participating in computer networking and fundamental differences in their perceptions of the technology. Arguments over the need for a transport protocol stemmed from conflicting expectations about the demand for network services and preferences concerning the role of host computers. Instead, a compromise capability called "fast select" was instituted that allows users the option of faster connection set-up at slightly lower reliability. While the Open System Interconnection model provides a common framework for discussing protocols, it has so far failed to resolve conflicting approaches to networking. When large technological systems undergo change, the process often involves diverse actors, increasing the likelihood of conflict and incomprehension between different groups.

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