Andy Keeves

Role: Founder and System Operator of ExecNet
Founded: 1986
Expertise: Programmer, System Administrator, Entrepreneur
Based In: Mount Vernon, New York
Andy Keeves is a pioneering figure in early online networking and bulletin board systems. In 1986, he founded ExecNet, a LAN-focused professional BBS platform that became one of the most respected systems serving network administrators, developers, and IT professionals during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Designed specifically for enterprise and technical users, ExecNet distinguished itself from hobbyist BBSes by offering structured software libraries, advanced system automation, and a strong professional focus.
The technical evolution and historical significance of ExecNet are documented in ExecNet Origins.

Background and Career

Before launching ExecNet, Andy Keeves accumulated extensive experience in the computer industry, working with mainframes, minicomputers, and early microcomputer systems.

His professional background included:

  • Novell NetWare integration and systems engineering (ExecNet Novell NetWare)
  • Local and wide area network design and administration
  • BBS software configuration, customization, and operations
  • Early Internet connectivity using SLIP, PPP, and shell access
  • Development of a proprietary content management system to automate subscriptions and system operations
  • Programming in BASIC, BASICA, Assembly, and other languages common to the era
He later co-founded Cyllon Systems International, Ltd., which managed ExecNet prior to its acquisition by Image’FX Productions, Inc..

Creation of ExecNet

ExecNet was founded in 1986 as a professional Bulletin Board System designed specifically for LAN and IT professionals and was initially built on Novell NetWare using 8088-based systems.
Built on PCBoard software, ExecNet quickly developed a reputation for reliability, structured content, and enterprise-level design that set it apart from typical consumer BBS systems.
As ExecNet expanded, Keeves guided the system’s migration from DOS-based nodes to OS/2, enabling multiple BBS nodes to operate on a single machine and significantly improving stability, scalability, and operational efficiency.

ExecNet provided:

  • Professional software distribution and curated file libraries
  • Message-based collaboration and peer technical support
  • Third-party add-ons designed for enterprise IT environments
  • Automated user and subscription management through a custom-built CMS
Andy Keeves personally designed and implemented the system’s multi-line BBS infrastructure, the award-winning software library, internal automation tools and system scripts, custom PCBoard enhancements, and the proprietary CMS that managed users, billing, and operational workflows.

Sysop Philosophy

“After all, as a business, we must cater to our customers. And yes, our callers are indeed our customers and no longer ‘guests’ — as older BBS ideology used to dictate.”

— Andy Keeves, ExecNet (BBS Magazine, 1995)

“ExecNet … became known as the system where you were likely to find new features.”

— BBS Magazine, 1995

Andy Keeves operated ExecNet according to a straightforward principle: callers were customers, not guests. User feedback was actively encouraged, and feature requests were frequently implemented within days, a level of responsiveness that was uncommon during the bulletin board era.

National Recognition, Media Coverage, and Awards

Under Andy Keeves’ leadership, ExecNet received national recognition for technical excellence, professional focus, and innovation in early online networking.
  • Dvorak Telecommunications Award for Technical Excellence (1994), awarded to ExecNet for maintaining one of the most comprehensive and professionally organized software libraries available on any BBS platform.
    View award details
  • Who’s Who Worldwide – Platinum Edition (1992–1993), recognizing Andrew Keeves for professional achievement and leadership in computing, networking, and systems administration.
    View recognition
  • Leading Consultants in Computer Software (1983), published by J. Dick & Co., recognizing early professional contributions to software systems and computer services.
    View listing
ExecNet was also widely featured in professional publications and national media, including PC World, Byte Magazine, Business Week, PC Week, Boardwatch Magazine, and national television coverage by CBS, NBC, ABC, and CNN.

Transition and Legacy

As Internet access expanded and traditional BBS platforms declined, ExecNet was acquired by Image’FX Productions, Inc., owned by Thomas Juliano, preserving its archives and historical record.
Although Andy Keeves eventually stepped away from ExecNet, his work remains an important part of the history of professional online networking, BBS development, enterprise automation, and early content management systems.

The Technology Behind ExecNet