In 1992, Claffy published the first of many papers on Internet traffic measurement and analysis, and in 1997, founded the Center for Applied Data Analysis (CAIDA) at the University of California’s San Diego Supercomputer Center.
Known as the oldest and most recognizable research institution for global Internet measurement and analysis, CAIDA has ensured widespread access to Internet measurement data, and by doing so, has informed disciplines ranging from network science and operations to political science and public policy.
Initially, the organization focused on data that informed the technical community, but CAIDA now also examines the economic and policy context that defines the Internet ecosystem. This includes analysis of attributes of the Internet related to infrastructure security and stability, the mutual interdependence of architecture and policy, and the ethics of information technology research.
Claffy continues to serve as CAIDA’s director, and is also a resident research scientist at the San Diego Supercomputer Center at UC, San Diego, as well as an Adjunct Professor in its Computer Science and Engineering Department.