news.volyx.in

Saying “sup” with `net send` (drew.shoes)

497 points by markchristian · 1348 days ago · 140 comments on HN

Article summary

The article recounts the author's experience in junior high school, where they and their friends discovered the Command Prompt command 'net send' and used it to send messages to each other on the school network. They soon found out about the wildcard support of 'net send' and used it to send a message to every computer on the network, which led to them getting in trouble. The author reflects on the incident and how it was a harmless prank, but also a learning experience. The school's IT department eventually disabled 'net send' across the network.

Main themes

  • net send prank
  • school network mischief
  • technological exploration
  • boundary pushing
  • consequences of actions
  • evolution of prankster tools
  • adult responses to technological mischief
  • learning and experimentation

What commenters say

  • The use of 'net send' was a common prank among students in the 90s and early 2000s, with many commenters sharing similar experiences.
  • Some commenters believe that the author and their friends were lucky to have not gotten into more serious trouble for their actions.
  • The discussion highlights the evolution of prankster tools and techniques over time, from 'net send' to more sophisticated methods.
  • The use of 'net send' and other prankster tools was often a result of boredom and a desire to push boundaries, rather than malicious intent.
  • Some commenters disagree with the author's assessment that they would not have gotten in much trouble if they had been caught, citing examples of students being punished for similar actions.
  • The incident and subsequent discussion demonstrate the importance of understanding the potential consequences of one's actions in a networked environment.
  • The use of 'net send' and other tools was also seen as a way to test boundaries and learn about the capabilities and limitations of technology.
  • The discussion touches on the theme of how adults and authorities often respond to technological mischief, with some commenters criticizing the overly harsh reactions of some educators and administrators.