a16z Podcast

a16z Podcast: Crypto, Security, CS, Quantum Computing, and More with Our New Professor-in-Residence

Sep 5, 2015

Dan Boneh, a Professor of Computer Science at Stanford and Co-director of the Stanford Computer Security Lab, discusses the intricate relationship between academia and startup culture. He delves into pressing issues in cybersecurity, including usability in digital authentication and the future of cryptography. Boneh highlights innovative approaches to tackling security challenges, the transformative role of Bitcoin, and the implications of quantum computing. He also shares insights on the impact of MOOCs in democratizing cryptography education, reaching over 600,000 students globally.

47:37

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Episode guests

Dan Boneh

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Quick takeaways

The introduction of the Professor-in-Residence program at Andreessen Horowitz signifies a strategic effort to bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering innovation.

Dan Boneh highlights the escalating public interest in computer security due to increasing digital vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for effective security measures.

The growth of computer science enrollment, coupled with initiatives like 'Computer Science Plus X', reflects the integration of technology across diverse academic fields.

Deep dives

The Role of Academia in Industry and Startups

The discussion highlights the growing importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry, emphasizing how many innovative ideas are now emerging from universities. The introduction of a 'professor in residence' role at Andreessen Horowitz demonstrates a commitment to fostering collaboration between university research and startup ventures. This initiative aims to leverage academic insights to influence industry practices, particularly in fields like computer security and cryptography. Dan Bonet, the guest speaker, underscores that such connections are essential for nurturing long-term, impactful ideas that can benefit both sectors.

Intro

2min

The Rising Tide of Cybersecurity Education

6min

Navigating Security and Usability in Digital Authentication

11min

Rethinking Security: The Role of Users and Developers in Authentication

4min

Bitcoin, Trust, and the Quantum Future

15min

Securing Software Development

5min

The Impact of MOOCs on Cryptography Education

6min

Many of the most successful companies have their foundations in university labs -- from data science to the web browser itself. Yet the process of moving from research project to successful startup isn't always straightforward. With the goal of smoothing this process and continuing to bridge entrepreneurs across academia and industry, we began the a16z Professor-in-Residence program just last year. And this year's newly anointed Andreessen Horowitz Distinguished Visiting Professor of Computer Science is Dan Boneh, Professor of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering at Stanford University as well as Co-director of the Stanford Computer Security Lab.

In this episode of the a16z Podcast, we sit down with Boneh to chat about applied vs. theoretical math and computer science; what's missing and what's next with "usable" security (including various authentication approaches); and current and future trends in cryptography, bitcoin, and more. Boneh also shares his thoughts on MOOCs (massive open online courses) as the "21st century version of the textbook". Oh, and on when quantum computing will finally happen... and why we should (and shouldn't!) freak out about it. Yet.

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