Many topics on the World Wide Web seemingly pop up out of nowhere disappear just as quickly. Topics on Usenet are more resilient. It relevance of subject matter on Usenet is a part of what has enabled it to remain robust over the decades. In fact, Usenet membership has grown and proliferated. Although it is popular, Usenet is sometimes misunderstood. Many people, accustomed only to the World Wide Web are unsure how Usenet works. Usenet’s longevity is found in its distinct social networking benefits and the diversity of its information.

Social Networking
To begin, Usenet is the first social networking system. It was created so experts and laypersons could exchange information, give advice, and participate in discussions. These are the core functions of social networks.

The Usenet Difference
While similar, Usenet is not designed to resemble, nor provide the interaction functions of modern day social networking sites. Usenet operates more like traditional web forums that allow users to participate in discussions. Usenet is also highly reliable in contrast to Internet social networking sites. Unlike social networking that is primarily a place to discuss pop culture, Usenet offers valuable information that can be used for research and personal use.

Diversity
Usenet has hundreds of thousands of different newsgroups. Each newsgroup offers information, advice, and content on a unique subject. It provides this information faster than traditional Internet discussion forums because posts and replies are available on Usenet immediately. Locating useful information on Usenet is also faster because topics are categorized into hierarchies. These hierarchies are well-thought out, so information on a specific topic is always found within specific newsgroups. Usenet users avoid having to hunt and peck for the right search term to find information on topic. Internet discussion forums are wilily and confusing in contrast.

Information Reliability
Information on Usenet is usually more trustworthy than on web discussion forums. Many newsgroups are moderated by experts. Since the newsgroups are in essence self-regulated by the users and the moderators, information that is inaccurate is quickly corrected or prohibited from being posted.

Getting Onboard
Getting onboard Usenet is simple. Users first locate a Usenet provider that suits their needs. Some Usenet providers offer free access, but the majority require a small monthly subscription fee to help pay for connectivity and customer assistance. These providers also give users a list of recommended newsgroup readers for the users to download so that they can access the Usenet groups.  Usenet is not as glitzy and commercial as social networks of the current day. It is Usenet’s simplicity that makes it so accessible. Similar to discussion forums though, Usenet members  create long-lasting friendships and follow each other’s activity. The added advantage of Usenet though is its credibility and the relevance of the topics discussed.

Brian Cohen has been writing about Usenet for many years. He enjoys educating readers about online information resources. With Usenet, Brian is able to access many newsgroups and dicussions that match his interests.