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 (BBS). In 1986, he founded ExecNet, a LAN-focused BBS system that became one of the leading platforms for network professionals during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

As an expert in networking, system administration, and programming, Andy Keeves built ExecNet to serve as a resource hub for LAN administrators, IT professionals, and software developers. The platform grew rapidly, evolving into a commercial online service known for its advanced third-party add-ons, file sharing, and technical discussions. For readers interested in a detailed look at ExecNet’s technical foundation, innovations, and evolution, see ExecNet Origins.

Background & Career:

Before launching ExecNet, Andy Keeves had already accumulated years of experience in the computer industry, working with mainframes, minicomputers, and early microcomputers. His expertise included:

He also co-founded Cyllon Systems International, Ltd., which later managed ExecNet before its acquisition by Image’FX Productions, Inc..

Creation of ExecNet:

Founded: 1986
Original Purpose: A bulletin board system (BBS) for LAN professionals.
Technology: Initially operated using Novell NetWare on 8088-based systems.

In 1986, Andy Keeves launched ExecNet as a local area network (LAN) support platform for sysadmins, developers, and networking professionals. Built on PCBoard software and initially run on 8088-based systems with Novell NetWare, the system quickly became a highly respected tool for:

  • File sharing and technical software distribution
  • Messaging and collaborative support forums
  • Hosting third-party add-ons for enterprise IT environments
  • Subscription management and automation via his CMS

ExecNet distinguished itself from hobbyist BBSes by offering practical tools and serious infrastructure tailored for professional users. It was widely adopted by network engineers seeking centralized access to system utilities, peer support, and vendor-neutral discussion spaces.

Andy Keeves personally designed and implemented:

  • ExecNet’s multi-line BBS infrastructure
  • The software library, which won a Dvorak Telecommunications Award
  • Automation tools and internal scripts for user management and message handling
  • Advanced file upload/download processing and custom PCBoard enhancements
  • The CMS for subscription and user account management
Sysop Philosophy:

Andy Keeves famously said, “Callers are customers.” He believed in putting users first and actively encouraged feedback, often implementing user-requested features within days.

Behind-the-Scenes Architect:

While users often saw his name online, Andy Keeves was known for operating mostly behind the scenes, rarely available for live chats but always present in design and execution. He was directly responsible for:

  • ExecNet’s technical framework and platform design
  • Integrating networking features with modem-based and LAN access
  • Writing and managing software utilities and automation tools
  • Developing and maintaining the CMS for ExecNet
National Recognition and Growth:
  • Its file collection won the Dvorak Telecommunications Award for Excellence
  • Featured in PC World, Byte Magazine, Business Week, PC Week, and Boardwatch Magazine (April 1996)
  • Appeared on major news broadcasts on CBS, NBC, ABC, and CNN
Transition & Acquisition:

As the internet expanded, BBS platforms like ExecNet faced decline. The system was acquired by Image’FX Productions Inc., owned by Thomas Juliano, in the late 1990s. Under his ownership, ExecNet’s resources and user base were integrated into Image’FX services, preserving part of its legacy.

Andy Keeves eventually stepped away from ExecNet, but his contributions to early online networking, BBS development, and CMS creation remain significant.

Contributions to Technology:
  • Building infrastructure for early peer-to-peer IT support
  • Promoting open distribution of custom BBS and PCBoard utilities
  • Creating a CMS for subscription and user management
  • Establishing one of the first technically-focused online platforms for sysadmins and IT professionals
  • Programming in BASIC, BASICA, and Assembly, as well as other Languages
Later Years & Legacy:

Andy Keeves’ impact is widely recognized in BBS and IT history communities. ExecNet is still remembered as a technically sophisticated and professionally focused BBS — a rare hybrid that served both as a functional tool and a model for collaborative tech support environments.

Without Andy Keeves, there would be no ExecNet.

See Also: