The Computer Dictionary

Usenet

Usenet is a world-wide decentralized system of discussion groups, called newsgroups, which has its roots in academia. However, it would be a mistake to consider Usenet an academic network. It is a free and open system of co-operating people at home computers, scientific labs, government agencies, universities, high schools, various organizations, and businesses of all sizes. It was established in 1980 at two American universities. It has been said that Usenet has had significant cultural importance and that Internet culture was born on Usenet.

Usenet is said to be 'more technical' than the World Wide Web. It is the prime venue for information that is earier to research and which is usually more accurate, more in-depth and succinct than what can be found on the web. Some believe the Usenet is the best way to locate information. Any Usenet user has access to all newsgroups.

Usenet resembles Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) in many ways, and is the precursor to the Internet forums of today. Usenet is still in widespread use; however, it has been declining in popularity.

Read more about Newsgroups.

Bulletin Board System , also known as Bulletin Boards or BBS, is another important system.

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