2008: Building Our Foundation in Privacy and Security
Our first full year of operation brought both significant challenges and crucial breakthroughs. When we started in 2007, we had a vision of a private, invitation-based network. In 2008, we began turning that vision into reality.
First Infrastructure Steps
The most significant development this year was establishing our first dedicated servers. Moving away from shared hosting was a major step - not just technically, but also in terms of our commitment to users' privacy. We carefully selected our first data center locations, ensuring they met our strict privacy and security requirements.
The Invitation System Takes Shape
Our unique invitation-based network concept proved both challenging and rewarding to implement. We spent considerable time developing a system that balanced security with usability. The early feedback from our first users, mainly journalists and privacy-conscious individuals, helped shape the system's development.
Technical Growth
This year marked several important technical achievements:
- Implemented our first custom VPN protocols
- Developed basic traffic routing systems
- Created initial user management tools
- Established fundamental security measures
Each development was driven by real user needs, particularly those of journalists and activists who needed reliable, secure connections.
Learning from Setbacks
Not everything went as planned. Our initial user interface was too complex for some users, and we faced several server stability issues in the early months. These challenges taught us valuable lessons about balancing advanced security features with user-friendly design.
The departure of our team member in 2007 still echoed through early 2008, but it helped us focus on building a more resilient organization. We learned to do more with less and to be more selective about our priorities.
Privacy Remains Central
My father's influence continued to guide our development. His insights into the needs of journalists and activists helped us understand how crucial reliable privacy tools are for those working in sensitive areas. This understanding drove us to implement stronger encryption standards and more robust privacy protections.
Growing User Base
Though we maintained our invitation-only model, our user base grew steadily throughout the year. Each new user brought unique challenges and perspectives, helping us understand different privacy needs across various contexts.
Infrastructure Expansion
By year's end, we had:
- Established our first proper server network
- Implemented basic redundancy systems
- Created our initial backup procedures
- Developed preliminary monitoring tools
Looking Forward to 2009
As we enter 2009, our priorities are clear:
- Expanding our server infrastructure
- Enhancing our encryption methods
- Improving user interface simplicity
- Strengthening our invitation system
Personal Reflection
This year reinforced something my father always emphasized - technology should serve human rights and freedom of speech. Every technical challenge we solved wasn't just about improving our service; it was about protecting someone's ability to communicate freely and safely.
To our users who trusted us this first year: thank you. Your faith in our vision has driven us to work harder and think deeper about how technology can protect privacy and freedom of expression.
The foundation we've built this year isn't just technical - it's a foundation of trust, privacy, and commitment to protecting free communication. As we move into 2009, these principles will continue to guide every decision we make.
Nima Golsharifi
Founder, OrbVPN