Business Movers
Cisco: The Founder's Dilemma | Making Connections | 1
Sep 14, 2023
Sandy Lerner and Len Bosack invent a technology to connect computers of different makes and models. They face resistance from Stanford University, leading them to start their own company. The founders of Cisco overcome financial struggles by letting customers access source code and forming partnerships. However, their success is threatened when accused of theft by Stanford University.
35:10
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The founders of Cisco Systems faced financial risks and rejection when trying to commercialize their invention of a router that allowed computers of different makes and models to communicate for the first time.
- Sandy and Len's unconventional marketing strategy of sending commercial emails to friends, colleagues, and potential customers over the ARPANET resulted in acquiring new customers and incorporating their feedback into future versions of the router.
Deep dives
Sandy's Ambition: Sharing the Router with Others
Sandy Lerner and Len Bosac, working at Stanford University, develop a router that allows computers of different makes and models to exchange data efficiently. Sandy seeks Stanford's permission to manufacture and distribute the router to colleagues at other institutions. However, Stanford refuses, stating that manufacturing and selling technology is outside the scope of the university's mandate. Despite the rejection, Sandy is determined to bring the technology to the world.
