Dr. Douglas Comer has an extensive background in
computer systems, and has worked with both hardware and software.
Comer's work on software spans most aspects of systems, including
compilers and operating systems. He created a complete operating
system, including a process manager, a memory manager, and device
drivers for both serial and parallel interfaces. Comer has also
implemented network protocol software and network device drivers for
conventional computers and network processors. Both his operating
system, Xinu, and TCP/IP protocol stack have been
used in commercial products.
Comer's experience with hardware includes work with
discrete components, building circuits from logic gates, and experience
with basic silicon technology. He has written popular textbooks on
network processor architectures, and at Bell Laboratories, Comer
studied VLSI design and fabricated a VLSI chip.
Comer is a Distinguished Professor of Computer Science
at Purdue University, where he develops and teaches courses and does
research on computer organization, operating systems, networks, and
Internets. Comer has created innovative laboratories in which students
can build and measure systems such as operating systems and IP routers;
all of Comer's courses include hands-on lab work. He continues to
consult and lecture at universities, industries, and conferences around
the world.
In addition to writing a series of internationally
acclaimed technical books on computer operating systems, networks,
TCP/IP, and computer technologies, Comer serves as the editor-in-chief
of the journal Software - Practice and Experience. He is a Fellow of
the ACM, a Fellow of the Purdue Teaching Academy, and a recipient of
numerous awards, including a Usenix Lifetime Achievement award.
