Matrix.Net

About Matrix.Net

Matrix Information and Directory Services (MIDS), later known as Matrix NetSystems and Matrix.Net, was established in 1990 by founder John S. Quarterman. Quarterman's extensive background in the early internet, including his use of the ARPANET starting in 1974 and his work on UNIX ARPANET software at BBN, provided a strong foundation for the company. He was also instrumental in the funding of early commercial Internet Service Providers (ISPs) like UUNET and co-founded one of the first ISPs in Austin, Texas.

The company carved out a niche in the nascent field of internet demographics and performance analytics. MIDS was a pioneer in visualizing the internet, publishing the first-ever maps of the entire network. It also conducted the first Internet Demographic Survey, providing early insights into the user base of the growing digital world. The business model centered on providing data and analysis on internet performance. A key offering was the "Internet Weather Report," launched in 1993, which presented a continuing series of performance data for the entire internet. This service, along with ISP Ratings, offered comparisons and performance metrics for internet service providers, serving as a critical information source for the industry.

The company's work was highly regarded, with Interactive Week once describing Quarterman as being to "Net demographics what The Gallup Organization is to opinion polls." In April 2003, Matrix NetSystems, Inc. merged with Alignment Software, Inc., briefly becoming Xaffire Inc. This entity was subsequently acquired by Keynote Systems, Inc. in December 2003.