A Brief History of Atlantic.Net Internet Services

In 1994, University of Florida students Manoj "Marty" Puranik and Jose Sanchez founded Internet Connect Company, Inc. in Gainesville, Florida. Operating under the name ICC Computers, the pair opened a retail computer store in downtown Gainesville with the purpose of financing entry into the emerging Internet access business. The company quickly developed a reputation for quality and service which remains their core business philosophy. In 1995 Internet Connect Co. launched one of the first commercial Internet services in North Florida, which rapidly expanded out into other nearby markets. The company continued to sell computers and software until ceasing retail operations in Spring of 1996 to completely focus on Internet connectivity.

In late 1996, a growing personnel roster and network operations center forced the company to find larger accommodations, and the headquarters was moved to a 5000 square foot office in Gainesville's landmark NationsBank building where it remains to this day.

It was during late 1996 and 1997 that the company began serious expansion efforts into markets outside North Florida. To facilitate entry into these markets, the company began acquiring other service providers and seeking partnerships with retail computer outlets and other technical service companies to increase brand awareness and market share.   During this time the company began operating under the Atlantic.Net name to differentiate itself from other Internet access providers and begin establishing brand identity.

In 1998 the company was named to the Florida 100 in a study conducted by the University of Florida's Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI), and Accounting Research and Professional Education (CARPE). This is designation recognizing the 100 fastest-growing private companies in Florida. In September, 1999, Atlantic.Net was named Florida's 15th fastest-growing private company by the Florida 100, up from number 79 the previous year.

Today, Atlantic.Net has more POPs in Florida than any other Internet provider. The company is focused on expanding its network capabilities throughout the southeastern United States and adding to its business-oriented customer base. Proudly serving more than 40,000 subscribers in five states, Atlantic.Net continues to grow organically and through acquisitions.