1995: The Internet's Big Bang

The summer of 1995 was the internet’s breakout moment. In just a few months, the web went from geeky curiosity to global phenomenon. Riding on the success of their leading web browser, Netscape's blockbuster IPO in August lit up Wall Street. Microsoft bundled Internet Explorer with Windows 95, firing the first shot in what would become known as the internet Browser Wars. eBay launched. And the world would never be the same.

What You’ll Experience:

• Hear Netscape cofounder Jim Clark reflect on their earth shattering IPO that skyrocketed from $28 to $75 on opening day, signaling the web's vast commercial potential and inspiring generations of future Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, VCs, and main street investors.
• Learn from former Microsoft executive Brad Silverberg what it took to shepherd the release of Windows 95 and Internet Explorer, opening up computing and the internet to the masses and making the web safe for business—and launching the browser wars with Netscape.
• Gain insights on these and other 1995 milestones from moderator John Markoff, the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who was in the trenches covering these events for The New York Times.

Whether you're an early netizen and dial-up modem veteran filled with nostalgia, or even if you weren't yet born but are curious how the internet "crossed the chasm" to mainstream adoption, this is a CHM special anniversary event that you don't want to miss.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Computer History Museum, 1401 North Shoreline Boulevard, Mountain View, United States